Nick Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis have been eliminated from the men’s doubles at the Australian Open, with injuries again playing a decisive role in their campaign.
The 2022 champions were edged out in a dramatic three-set encounter by fellow Australians Marc Polmans and Jason Kubler, who claimed a 6-4, 4-6, 7-6(4) victory in front of a packed crowd at Kia Arena.
Kyrgios and Kokkinakis appeared on track to extend their run after securing a break early in the deciding set, but momentum shifted as physical issues began to hamper both players during the latter stages of the match, which extended beyond two hours.
Kokkinakis showed visible discomfort while serving midway through the third set and required a medical timeout to receive treatment on his shoulder. Although he was able to continue, Kyrgios also began to struggle, with his heavily bandaged knee causing increasing concern as the contest moved towards a tie-break.
Despite their physical limitations, the duo worked hard to lift the crowd, producing several highlight-reel shots that had the arena buzzing. However, a disputed volley early in the tie-break — which was ruled to have crossed the net illegally – handed Polmans and Kubler a crucial mini-break.
From there, Polmans and Kubler maintained their composure, capitalising on a rise in unforced errors from their opponents to race out to a commanding lead and close out the match.
As is often the case in Kyrgios matches, the encounter was not without its fiery moments, with the 28-year-old receiving a code violation and exchanging words with both the umpire and a spectator. Nevertheless, Polmans and Kubler remained focused to secure a notable all-Australian victory.
Kyrgios, who had already withdrawn from the singles draw due to injury, is expected to return to action in the mixed doubles, where he is scheduled to partner Leylah Fernandez later in the tournament.
