Nick Kyrgios has been dealt another harsh blow after a fresh knee injury forced him to withdraw from the French Open, casting serious doubt over his future in professional tennis. The 30-year-old Australian, once a promising and flamboyant Wimbledon finalist, now finds himself battling a string of physical setbacks that have repeatedly interrupted his career.
Kyrgios was expected to make a notable return to the clay courts of Roland Garros after an eight-year absence, where he had not competed since 2017. The excitement was particularly high as he planned to team up with fellow Australian Jordan Thompson in the doubles competition. The pair share a history dating back to their junior years, having been runners-up at the 2012 US Open boys’ doubles. However, the latest injury dashed those hopes, leaving Kyrgios sidelined once again and Thompson scrambling to find a new partner.
Thompson revealed the emotional toll this latest setback has had on his close friend. Kyrgios was reportedly “really pumped” to compete, staying in regular contact to confirm their doubles plans. But just days before the tournament, he informed Thompson that he had injured his knee again. Thompson said Kyrgios confided in him that he wasn’t sure how much more he could endure after enduring a career plagued by injuries.
This candid admission highlights the ongoing struggle Kyrgios faces as he battles the physical demands of professional tennis. Despite his frustrations, Thompson expressed empathy for Kyrgios, emphasizing the love the player still holds for the game and the disappointment of not being able to compete on court.
Kyrgios’s career has been a stop-start affair over recent years, marked by recurring knee and foot problems alongside a major wrist surgery. In March, there had been a glimmer of hope when Kyrgios claimed his first singles victory in two and a half years at the Miami Open. That win had sparked optimism among fans and observers that the Australian might be able to reclaim his place on the tour. Unfortunately, the subsequent injury has brought that optimism to a halt.
At the French Open, Kyrgios’s presence was felt, but only off-court as a TV commentator. This shift toward media work could be a sign that he is preparing for life beyond competitive tennis. With his playing future uncertain, the time spent in front of the camera allows him to remain connected to the sport while his body recovers—or possibly transitions toward retirement.
Meanwhile, Thompson had to adjust quickly to the change, partnering instead with fellow Australian Jason Kubler for the doubles event. Their opening match against the French duo Quentin Halys and Albano Olivetti was scheduled soon after the draw was announced. The reality of tennis is often harsh, with injuries and withdrawals reshaping tournament lineups at a moment’s notice.
The French Open itself has been a rollercoaster, with notable early exits among top seeds and strong performances by other Australian players. Alja Tomljanovic impressed with a straight-sets victory over Morocco’s Maya Joint, while Alexei Popyrin and Daria Kasatkina notched significant wins. Yet, the tournament also saw its share of casualties, including seasoned players Aleksandar Vukic, Chris O’Connell, Daria Saville, Kim Birrell, and Jordan Thompson, all succumbing to the demanding conditions of clay-court tennis.
Kyrgios’s story is one of unfulfilled potential due to relentless injuries that seem to have worn down one of the sport’s most charismatic and talented players. At 30, with a body that has repeatedly failed him, the question looms large: how much more can Nick Kyrgios take? Fans and fellow players alike can only hope that he finds a way back to the court if his body allows or peace with whatever comes next in his tennis journey.
