Nick Kyrgios gets 'honest' about how he feels after losing season-opener in Brisbane International comeback

Nick Kyrgios made a brutally honest admission about his brief singles campaign at the 2025 Brisbane International, marking his comeback to tennis after 18 months.

Kyrgios’ return saw him take on World No. 31 Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in the second round on December 31. Despite this being his first singles match in a long time, he played well, but there was a concerning moment when he called for the physio after losing the first set. He continued to play with heavy taping on his wrist.

However, the Aussie ultimately couldn't secure the win as Mpetshi Perricard triumphed 7-6(2), 6-7(4), 7-6(3). The Frenchman was dominant from the baseline and played a strong service game, setting up a matchup with Frances Tiafoe in the Round of 16.

After his loss, Nick Kyrgios admitted in the press conference that his opponent played better in certain areas. Still, he was generally pleased with his performance and felt positive about his comeback.

"For me, honestly, it was a great match, considering I hadn't played in 18 months. And to put myself in a winning position was exciting. It was just good to be back out there," he said.

"I felt fit and I'm in great shape. Obviously felt some discomfort with the wrist, but he does serve and hit the ball a lot bigger than probably some of the people that I have practiced with in the last year," he added.

Interestingly, while he expressed overall satisfaction with his performance, he wasn’t sure if he would be able to continue into the next round, even if he had won. Kyrgios continued:

"But, you know, there is no hiding. Once you commit to playing like that, you've got to be ready. I'm relatively really happy with how it went. You know, if I had to win that match, I'm honestly not sure if I'd be able to play my second round."

Nick Kyrgios keeps Brisbane International hopes alive in doubles

Nick Kyrgios pictured with Novak Djokovic at the 2025 Brisbane International | Image Source: Getty

Nick Kyrgios may have been eliminated from the singles at the Brisbane International, but he's still in the hunt for doubles glory. The Aussie has teamed up with Novak Djokovic for their first-ever collaboration on the court.

Djokovic and Kyrgios kicked off their doubles campaign with an impressive win, defeating Alexander Erler and Andreas Miles 6-4, 6-7(4), 10-8. They will next face top seeds Nikola Mektic and Michael Venus on January 1.

Both players will then head to the Australian Open, which begins on January 12.