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16 January 2025

Australian Open 2025: Kyrgios And Kokkinakis Exit Early Amid Injuries

The duo's match end ignites discussions about the future of tennis at Melbourne Park this year.

The Australian Open 2025 has unfolded with plenty of drama and fervor, capturing the attention of tennis fans across the globe. Among the controversies and highlights, Day 5 was particularly marked by unexpected outcomes and electric performances.

One of the day’s most stirring moments came when the duo of Nick Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis—widely known as the ‘Special Ks’—found themselves exiting the tournament prematurely. Their doubles match against fellow Australians James Duckworth and Aleksandar Vukic ended with retirement, the duo unable to capitalize on their previous successes. This match lasted just over one hour when they were trailing 3-2 in the second set after losing the first 7-5.

The crowd at Melbourne Park was filled with anticipation, recalling the triumphs of the previous years when Kyrgios and Kokkinakis stunned audiences with their high-energy performances. Unfortunately, this time the atmosphere was subdued. Kokkinakis had entered the match nursing his pectoral injury, and concerns about his condition overshadowed any excitement. After sustaining another defeat on Wednesday, Kokkinakis’s chances appeared grim. Kyrgios was mindful of his own abdominal issue, both players clearly pushing through injury.

“He doesn’t need to be here,” Kyrgios was heard expressing frustration to the umpire, highlighting the disappointment both players and fans felt during the match, particularly as Kokkinakis struggled to find his rhythm. The duo did showcase some of the trademark flair fans had come to expect, hitting underarm serves and performing sharp volleys, but the match spiraled as Duckworth and Vukic quickly took control.

Duckworth and Vukic posed serious challenges as they remained focused, with Vukic needing to conserve energy for his upcoming third-round singles clash. Duckworth, who had previously reached the quarter-finals at the Australian Open, was clearly on his game. Despite their unsteady start, the crowd witnessed flashes of brilliance from the ‘Special Ks’, but the urgency and struggle for points was palpable.

Fans caught glimpses of the match’s most exhilarating moments, including thrilling rallies and high-pressure volleys. Frustration mounted for Kokkinakis as he hit balls out of play following lost points, leading to tensions with the chair umpire. Their antics warmed the crowd momentarily, who cherished the familiarity of Kyrgios and Kokkinakis’s antics, but the prevailing sentiment was one of melancholy as the pair chose to retire mid-match.

Meanwhile, the night brought another spectacle to Rod Laver Arena, where World No. 1 Jannik Sinner faced Australian wildcard Tristan Schoolkate. An enthusiastic crowd cheered as Schoolkate managed to snag the first set, surprising many with his aggressive play and impressive net approaches. He quickly reminded everyone of the talent budding within the Australian ranks. Yet, the Italian star, Sinner, showcased why he holds the top position, regaining composure and winning the match decisively.

“That was quite surprising for me,” Sinner remarked after struggling initially but bouncing back impressively to take the match 4-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-3. His resilience exemplified the high stakes and emotional ebb and flow typical of the prestigious tournament.

Back on the side courts, the narrative extended beyond injuries and retirements. Danielle Collins stirred up the tennis world’s discourse with her provocative remarks post-match after defeating local hope Destanee Aiava. Collins emerged as somewhat of a villain following comments she made teasing Austrlian fans, showcasing the fiery competitive spirit present within the tournament.

Her win over Aiava may have solidified her spot as public enemy number one, but fans still look on excitedly toward future matchups featuring promising new talent like 18-year-old Brazilian Joao Fonseca, who has been captivating audiences with his playing style, crafting his narrative as the new breakout star on the ATP tour.

Even with mixed emotions surrounding the events of Day 5, one thing is certain: the Australian Open continues to provide enthralling narratives filled with talent, tension, and perhaps the stirrings of controversy as competition intensifies. With each passing round, players will not only fight for titles but also for the hearts and minds of fans both old and new.

Fans are sure to eagerly anticipate the upcoming rounds, wondering who will rise and who will fall as the tournament presents more high-stakes matches and enthralling performances, setting the stage for what promises to be yet another unforgettable chapter at the Australian Open 2025.