Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios returned to the ATP Tour after nearly a year away, but his comeback ended in disappointment with a straight-set loss to American Aleksandar Kovacevic in the opening round of the Brisbane International 2026.

The 30-year-old former world No. 13, who has struggled with injuries in recent years, was handed a wildcard entry into the tournament as he looks to regain his fitness and form ahead of the Australian Open 2026.

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Kyrgios Faces Tough Return Against Kovacevic

Kyrgios, whose ATP singles appearances have been limited to just six matches over the past three seasons, was defeated 6-3, 6-4 by the 27-year-old Kovacevic in a match lasting only 65 minutes. The Australian appeared to struggle with his elbow during the contest, highlighting the ongoing challenges he faces in regaining top competitive form.

Despite the loss, Kyrgios showed glimpses of his trademark flair, including a spectacular underarm serve in the second set that won him a point and drew applause from the crowd.

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Building Momentum for the Australian Open

Currently ranked 670th in the world, Kyrgios is focused on regaining match fitness and improving his ranking. His performance in Brisbane is part of a broader plan to secure a wildcard for the Australian Open, which begins on 18 January 2026 in Melbourne.

Kyrgios has faced a series of injuries over recent years, limiting his participation in Grand Slam tournaments. His last appearance at a major saw him exit in the first round at his home tournament in 2025 against Britain’s Jacob Fearnley.

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Recent Highlights Before Brisbane

Before returning to ATP Tour action, Kyrgios captured headlines in December 2025 with a straight-set victory over women’s world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in a widely publicized ‘Battle of the Sexes’ exhibition match. The win demonstrated Kyrgios’ unique playing style and his ability to perform under pressure, though it did not directly impact his ATP ranking.

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Looking Ahead: Doubles and Exhibition Matches

Following his singles defeat in Brisbane, Kyrgios is scheduled to compete in the men’s doubles alongside Thanasi Kokkinakis, his Australian-Greek partner. He will also participate in the Kooyong Classic warm-up exhibition event in Melbourne next week, which serves as a preparatory platform ahead of the Australian Open.

For Kovacevic, the victory marks an important step forward in the Brisbane International, as he will face either Britain’s Cameron Norrie or France’s Ugo Humbert in the second round.