Nick Kyrgios has officially embarked on his latest return to competitive tennis, securing a decisive straight-sets victory against world No. 36 Corentin Moutet in the opening round of the ATP tournament held in Stuttgart.
The Australian, who previously held a career-high ranking of No. 13, had not participated in a singles match since his appearance at the Brisbane International in January, where he suffered a loss in just 66 minutes against world No. 58 Aleksandar Kovacevic.
After missing the entirety of the 2024 season, Kyrgios has managed to win only one singles match since October 2022.
At the Wimbledon warm-up event on Tuesday, the 31-year-old Kyrgios demonstrated his formidable skills, showcasing powerful serves along with entertaining drop shots and tweeners, defeating Moutet 6-3, 6-4 in a match that lasted less than an hour.
Following his win, Kyrgios expressed his joy at being back on the court, reflecting on his doubts about continuing in high-level tennis.
“I underwent wrist reconstruction, had four knee surgeries, and I’m really fighting through it, but I’ve also dedicated a lot of effort, and I’m feeling good about myself,” he stated.
“Honestly, there were numerous moments when I questioned: ‘Why am I still playing? What more do I need to accomplish?’ However, I look at all of you, and that’s why I’m here, so I’ll stick around a bit longer.”
“I’m satisfied with my performance today, and I feel great physically. I’ve been working hard, and I’m just really pleased to be back.”
Previously, Kyrgios attempted a comeback but faced elimination in mixed doubles, resulting in a quick exit for the “Special Ks” at the Australian Open, where he and partner Thanasi Kokkinakis lost in the first round to fellow Australians Jason Kubler and Marc Polmans.
After that setback, Kyrgios mentioned he would reassess his future schedule, stating, “I’ve done everything I believed I could do. I’m uncertain about what my next steps will be.”
Such remarks sparked speculation regarding the possibility of his retirement from professional tennis.
For the time being, those concerns have been alleviated as Kyrgios made a triumphant return to the ATP tour in preparation for Wimbledon, where he reached the finals in 2022. A strong performance on the grass in Stuttgart could earn him a wildcard entry in London.
“I’m absolutely thrilled to be back and playing at a high level,” he remarked. “Am I confident? I’m not sure that’s the right word just yet. I’ll see how I feel tomorrow.”
Kyrgios is scheduled to face Japan’s Sho Shimabukuro, ranked 101, on Thursday, following a doubles match with partner Alexander Bublik on Wednesday.
