The fiery return of Nick Kyrgios at the 2025 Australian Open ended in disappointment as the Australian crowd favorite succumbed to Jacob Fearnley in three sets, 7-6(3), 6-3, 7-6(2). Despite his tough fight, the 29-year-old Kyrgios was visibly hampered by injuries, leaving fans at a loss. John Cain Arena in a mixture of wonder and disappointment.
A risky return gone wrong
Kyrgios’ participation in Melbourne was uncertain after a difficult start to the season at Brisbane Internationalwhere he suffered an abdominal tear and wrist pain. Despite these setbacks, the ever-determined Australian chose to compete, a decision that proved costly.
From the first ball, Kyrgios seemed far from his best level. Grimacing at every point, his trademark dazzling serve was visibly blunted. By the time he led 4-3 in the first set, Kyrgios was audibly frustrated, exclaiming to his team: “I shouldn’t be here!”
Fearnley’s rise and Kyrgios’ fight
While Kyrgios struggled with his physical limitations, Jacob Fearnleya rising British star and newcomer to the ATP top 100, delivered a composed and polished performance. The 21-year-old took full advantage of Kyrgios’ weakened state, holding serve consistently and dominating key moments.
The first set escaped in a tiebreak as Fearnley outplayed the Australian, winning 7-3. Kyrgios’ frustrations flared during the side changes, apparently expressing his displeasure with his fitness coach for allowing him to play despite his injuries.
The second set followed a similar scenario, with Fearnley breaking early and winning 6-3. Kyrgios, visibly struggling, looked like he was about to give in but instead chose to move forward, fighting for the crowd and digging deep into his bag of tricks.
A Flash of Magic Kyrgios
Despite the uphill battle, Kyrgios delivered flashes of brilliance in the third set, thrilling the packed arena. At one point, he broke Fearnley’s serve with a behind-the-back shot, sending the crowd into a frenzy. THE John Cain Arena roared at every point, creating an atmosphere worthy of a blockbuster match.
The set ended in another tiebreak, where Kyrgios’ desperation led to some high-risk plays. A failed serve-volley attempt and a double fault gave Fearnley the momentum, and the Briton calmly closed out the match.
What’s next for Kyrgios and Fearnley
While Jacob Fearnley advances to face Arthur Cazaux in the second round, Kyrgios faces a grim reality. His decision to play through injury only prolonged his recovery, leaving questions about his future competitiveness. The Australian, who thrives on crowd energy and elite serving, will now need to regroup and reassess his fitness before the season begins.
A tale of two journeys
This match was a testament to two contrasting stories: Kyrgios’ courage and defiance in the face of physical adversity and Fearnley’s composed emergence onto the Grand Slam stage. For Kyrgios, it’s another chapter in his tumultuous career. For Fearnley, this is the start of something big.
