Nick Kyrgios’ first ATP Tour match since March ended in a straight-set defeat to Aleksandar Kovacevic in the opening round of the Brisbane International.
The 30-year-old Australian, who had been given a wildcard and has played only six ATP singles matches in the past three seasons, lost 6-3 6-4 to the American in just 65 minutes.
The defeat comes after Kyrgios’ recent ‘Battle of the Sexes’ exhibition win over world number one Aryna Sabalenka.
Now ranked 670th, he is targeting improved fitness in the hope of securing a wildcard for the Australian Open, which begins on 18 January in Melbourne, following several serious injuries in recent years.
Kyrgios appeared to clutch his elbow in discomfort during the match against world number 58 Kovacevic but still produced a trademark underarm serve to win a point in the second set.
The result is another setback to his bid to return to Grand Slam action for the first time since a first-round defeat to Britain’s Jacob Fearnley at his home tournament in 2025.
He is scheduled to play men’s doubles on Wednesday with Greek Australian partner Thanasi Kokkinakis before competing at the Kooyong Classic exhibition event in Melbourne next week.
