Wimbledon runner-up Nick Kyrgios has suffered a setback to his North American campaign after being forced to pull out the singles tournament at this week’s Atlanta Open.
The world No.47 was set to take on Germany’s Peter Gojowczyk on Tuesday evening but instead took to the court to make an address to the audience explaining why he isn’t playing. Kyrgios has withdrawn due to knee soreness in what is the latest injury blip for the tennis star. Last year he was forced to end his season early due to “left knee patella tendinopathy.” A soft tissue injury which causes pain below the kneecap.
However, Kyrgios is still hopeful that he will still be able to play in Atlanta this week but in the doubles tournament where he is teamed up with Thanasi Kokkinakis. The duo, who are the reigning Australian Open champions, won their opening match against Édouard Roger-Vasselin and Nicolas Mahut in straight sets.
“I just want to say that I’m extremely shattered that I’m not able to compete tonight,” Kyrgios said.
“I’ve won this tournament once and, you know, I’m playing some of the best tennis of my career.
“All I wanted to do was come out there and give you guys a show and obviously see what I’m capable of, but I’m unable to give out my best performance today.
“I’m extremely sorry but I’m going to keep my hopes up and maybe be able to continue doubles with Thanasi this week.”
The 27-year-old was replaced in the draw by France’s Adrian Mannarino who defeated Gojowczyk 6-3, 7-6(7). He will play wildcard Andres Martin in the next round. Martin is making his ATP Tour debut in singles this week.
Kyrgios hasn’t played on the Tour since his breakthrough run at Wimbledon where he reached his first major final. He was leading Novak Djokovic by a set in the final before losing in four. During a recent Instagram live interview, the Australian said he has a greater respect for the Big Three following that clash.
Unfortunately for Kyrgios his performance at The All England Club had no impact on his ranking as points were not awarded at the tournament following their decision to ban Russian and Belarussian players from participating. If points had been awarded he would be positioned towards the top 20. Instead he is currently 47th and is set to be unseeded for the US Open.
