Nick Kyrgios has ruled out of singles play at the Australian Open after opting to focus on doubles with partner Thanasi Kokkinakis in Melbourne.
Kyrgios will miss out on a potential wild card spot after battling major wrist and knee surgeries over the past three years and falling to 670th in the world rankings.
The former Wimbledon finalist said on Instagram on Friday morning that he wanted a player prepared for the rigors of five-set tennis to instead take the wild card spot.
“After some good conversations with TA [Tennis Australia]”I made the call to focus on doubles for this year’s AO,” Kyrgios wrote.
“I’m fit and back on court, but the fives players are a different animal and I’m not quite ready to go yet.
“This tournament means everything to me, but I’d rather give my place to someone who is ready to seize their moment.
Nick Kyrgios at the Brisbane International this week.Credit: Getty Images
“It’s all building blocks and I’ll be back next year pumped to compete. I’ll see you there.”
Kyrgios’ last singles match was a 6-3, 6-4 first-round defeat to world No. 55 Aleksandar Kovacevic at the Brisbane International on Tuesday.
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