Nick Kyrgios has marked his latest return to tennis with a straight-sets victory over Corentin Moutet at the ATP event in Stuttgart. The Australian, once ranked No 13 in the world, defeated the Frenchman 6-3, 6-4 in less than an hour, showcasing powerful serves and showmanship.
First Singles Win in 15 Months
Kyrgios had not played a singles match since January 2024, when he lost at the Brisbane International. He missed the entire 2024 season and has won only one singles match since October 2022. The 31-year-old underwent a wrist reconstruction and four knee surgeries, raising doubts about his career.
Emotional Return
After the match, Kyrgios expressed his relief and joy. "I had a wrist reconstruction, I've had four knee surgeries, so I'm really battling, but at the same time I've put in a lot of work, I'm really feeling good about myself," he said. He admitted to questioning his career but found motivation in the support of fans.
"Honestly, there were so many times I was thinking: 'Why am I playing? What more do I need to do?' And I look at you guys and this is why I'm playing, so I'll hang around a little longer," he added.
Previous Comeback Attempt
An earlier comeback attempt ended with a mixed doubles defeat at the Australian Open, where he and Thanasi Kokkinakis lost in the first round. After that, Kyrgios said he would re-evaluate his schedule, leading to speculation about his retirement.
Now, with a winning return in Stuttgart, those questions are answered for now. A strong performance on grass could earn him a wildcard for Wimbledon, where he reached the final in 2022.
Next Match
Kyrgios will face Japan's Sho Shimabukuro on Thursday after a doubles match with Alexander Bublik on Wednesday. "I'm so thrilled to be back, and playing some high-level tennis as well," he said. "Confident? I don't know if that is a word I'm feeling quite yet."
