In a disappointing turn of events at the Australian Open, Australian tennis stars Nick Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis were forced to retire from their opening round doubles match, citing injury concerns.
Both players had been struggling with injuries sustained during their singles campaigns, but it was Kokkinakis’ worsening pectoral injury that ultimately led to their withdrawal. The decision allowed their compatriots, Aleksandar Vukic and James Duckworth, to advance to the tournament’s second round. Prior to the retirement, Vukic and Duckworth had clinched the first set 7-5 and were leading 3-2 in the second set.
Following the match, Thanasi Kokkinakis expressed his disappointment to the press, revealing the medical advice that compelled him to make the difficult choice. “The doctor advised me not to play,” Kokkinakis stated. “In any other event or circumstance, I wouldn’t have stepped foot on the court. I’m likely going to need a serious procedure now.”
Meanwhile, Vukic and Duckworth will look to capitalize on their progress as they prepare for their next challenge in the tournament.
