Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios is poised for a competitive return to Melbourne Park next week, albeit in a limited capacity, setting the stage for a potential encounter with his former partner, influencer Costeen Hatzi.
Doubles Focus After Singles Withdrawal
Kyrgios has confirmed he will compete in the men's doubles at the Australian Open, partnering once more with fellow Aussie Thanasi Kokkinakis. This decision follows his withdrawal from the singles draw, where he turned down a wildcard offer. The 2022 Wimbledon finalist cited ongoing physical challenges as the reason, stating that the rigour of best-of-five-set matches remains beyond his current fitness level.
"After some good conversations with Tennis Australia, I've made the call to focus on doubles at this year's AO," Kyrgios announced on social media. He elaborated, "I'm fit and back on court, but five-setters are a different beast and I'm not quite ready to go the distance yet." Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley supported the move, calling it the "right decision" given Kyrgios's recent injury struggles.
Hatzi's Melbourne Park Plans Revealed
Adding a personal dimension to the sporting narrative, Kyrgios's ex-girlfriend, Costeen Hatzi, has revealed she will also be attending the Grand Slam event. During an Instagram Q&A, the social media influencer confirmed she is heading to Melbourne Park at the end of the week. She hinted at a different experience this year, having partnered with Australian fashion and beauty brands for the tournament.
"Yes, absolutely!" Hatzi replied to a fan's question about her attendance. "I’m heading off at the end of the week and can’t wait to experience the Australian Open in a new light." The pair, who began dating in 2021 after meeting when Kyrgios bought a mirror she was selling online, split amicably last year. In May, Hatzi reflected on the relationship ending, saying, "We haven't spoken, relationships come to an end. I believe it's for the best."
Injury Battles and Partnership Concerns
Kyrgios's path back to the tour has been hampered by significant injuries, including knee and wrist ligament surgeries which he admitted had "dragged him down." His recent first-round exit at the Brisbane International underscored his ongoing battle for form. Meanwhile, concerns linger over the fitness of his doubles partner, Thanasi Kokkinakis.
Kokkinakis, who underwent a rare pectoral tendon surgery using a donor graft last February, fought through visible pain to win his first singles match in a year at the Adelaide International. He required medical treatment during the match, casting doubt on his readiness for the Australian Open. Despite this, he expressed determination to continue, stating he would be "on ice" and taking "the strongest painkillers" to be ready.
The reunion of the "Special K's" in doubles will be a major draw for home fans, marking Kyrgios's first Grand Slam appearance since last year's Australian Open, where the pair retired mid-match due to Kokkinakis's injury. All eyes will now be on Melbourne Park to see if Kyrgios can rekindle his on-court magic and whether paths will cross off it.
