Novak Djokovic and Nick Kyrgios Set to Join Forces in Brisbane Doubles
In a move that has tennis fans buzzing, Novak Djokovic and Nick Kyrgios are teaming up to play doubles at the Brisbane International. The announcement came straight from Kyrgios himself, who posted the news Monday on Instagram.
“Doubles at Brisbane. See y’all there,” Kyrgios wrote on his Instagram story, accompanied by a throwback photo of the two from their memorable meeting at Wimbledon in 2022. For fans of both players, this pairing is as unexpected as it is exciting, especially considering the rocky history between the two.
From Rivals to Friends
It wasn’t too long ago that Kyrgios and Djokovic were anything but friendly. Kyrgios famously called the 24-time Grand Slam champion “boneheaded” and a “tool” during one of their public spats. But time—and perhaps mutual respect—has a way of healing old wounds. Over the past couple of years, the two have developed a surprising friendship, and this doubles partnership is the latest sign of their newfound camaraderie.
The Brisbane International, an ATP 250 event, runs from Dec. 29 to Jan. 5 and serves as a warm-up for the Australian Open, which kicks off on Jan. 12. While the tournament organizers have yet to comment on the high-profile pairing, the news has already sent shockwaves through the tennis world.
Clash of Styles: Djokovic and Kyrgios on the Same Side
Djokovic, 37, and Kyrgios, 29, have faced off three times on the ATP Tour. Kyrgios won their first two encounters back in 2017, but Djokovic got the last laugh with a four-set victory in the 2022 Wimbledon final. Now, instead of battling each other, they’ll be joining forces—a dynamic that promises to be as entertaining as it is unpredictable.
For Kyrgios, this doubles stint marks a significant step in his return to competitive tennis. The Australian has played just one singles tour match in the past two years, sidelined by a series of injuries to his knee, foot, and wrist. However, he’s gearing up for a busy schedule. In addition to Brisbane, Kyrgios is set to compete in the Dec. 19-22 World Tennis League exhibition event in Abu Dhabi. He’ll also make his singles return in Brisbane and play at the Australian Open with a protected ranking of 21st.
The “Special Ks” Reunion
As if the Djokovic-Kyrgios pairing wasn’t enough, Kyrgios will also reunite with his longtime friend and doubles partner Thanasi Kokkinakis at the Australian Open. The duo, affectionately known as the “Special Ks,” captured their only major title together in 2022 at Melbourne Park. Fans will undoubtedly be eager to see if they can recapture that magic.
Djokovic’s Australian Swing
For Djokovic, the Brisbane International is all about preparation. Less than two weeks ago, the Serbian superstar confirmed his participation in the tournament as he gears up for a shot at his 11th Australian Open title. “I’m excited to be kicking off my Australian swing at the Brisbane International and to compete again at Pat Rafter Arena,” Djokovic said in a statement on Dec. 4.
With Djokovic’s legendary consistency and Kyrgios’ unpredictable flair, their doubles matches are sure to be must-watch events. Whether they dominate the court or simply entertain the crowd, one thing is certain: this partnership is already one of the most talked-about storylines heading into the 2024 tennis season.
What to Watch For
- How will Djokovic and Kyrgios’ contrasting styles mesh? Djokovic’s precision and Kyrgios’ creativity could make for a fascinating combination.
- Can Kyrgios stay healthy? After two years plagued by injuries, all eyes will be on Kyrgios’ physical condition as he returns to competitive play.
- What does this mean for the Australian Open? Both players will use Brisbane as a tune-up for the year’s first Grand Slam, where they’ll have their own individual goals to chase.
As the countdown to the Brisbane International begins, the tennis world will be watching closely. Will this unlikely duo find success on the doubles court? Or will their partnership be a one-time experiment? Either way, Djokovic and Kyrgios are sure to bring plenty of drama, excitement, and maybe even a few laughs to the tournament.
Originally Written by: Reuters
