The US Open draw has been revealed, with friends and double partners, Nick Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis set to face off in a bittersweet first-round men’s singles encounter.
The ‘Special K’s’ are pitted against each other in a tough quarter that features World No. 1 Daniil Medvedev who Kyrgios beat earlier this month at the Canadian Open.
The Australian Open and most recent Atlanta Open-winning duo have been dubbed by the ATP as one of the most exciting double teams on the circuit this season, however only one can advance to the second round of the men’s singles in the US tournament.
Melbourne. Atlanta. Same energy 👑 🇦🇺 @TKokkinakis x @NickKyrgios pic.twitter.com/UIOBrG5XWK
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) August 1, 2022
Whilst the pair will be seeking their third title of the year together in the men’s doubles, they have never played against each other on main tour.
Kyrgios, seeded 23rd, is one of the world’s most in-form tennis player’s, showcasing his skills this year in his run to the Wimbledon final in July and subsequent victory in Washington earlier this month.
If he beats Kokkinakis, he will likely play France’s Ugo Humbert in the second round and 16th seed Spaniard, Roberto Bautista Agut in the third, before a possible blockbuster with Medvedev.
The draw announcement comes as early this morning, Novak Djokovic announced he will not be competing in the American grand slam, with US rules disallowing his entry to the country due to his COVID-19 vaccination status.
Sadly, I will not be able to travel to NY this time for US Open. Thank you #NoleFam for your messages of love and support. ❤️ Good luck to my fellow players! I’ll keep in good shape and positive spirit and wait for an opportunity to compete again. 💪🏼 See you soon tennis world! 👋🏼
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) August 25, 2022
