Nick Kyrgios, one of tennis’ most enigmatic figures, has returned to the ATP Tour after an 18-month absence due to injury. While fans celebrated his comeback at the Brisbane International, Kyrgios wasted no time making headlines by criticizing the tennis system, particularly the demanding ATP calendar, which he described as “ridiculous” and “absurd.”
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Kyrgios’ Triumphant Yet Challenging Return
The Australian star’s return to the court marks a significant milestone in his career. After undergoing multiple surgeries and facing uncertainty about whether he would ever compete again, Kyrgios defied the odds by stepping back onto the professional stage.
Partnering with Novak Djokovic in the doubles tournament at the Brisbane International, Kyrgios showcased his talent and flair as the duo won their opening match. The pairing itself was a spectacle, uniting two of the sport’s most talked-about players in a thrilling display of skill and chemistry.
However, Kyrgios’ singles journey faced a stumbling block as he fell to Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, extending his wait for a singles ATP Tour win to an astonishing 817 days. Despite the loss, his mere presence on the court was a testament to his resilience and determination.
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A Season Without Ranking Pressure
Kyrgios has made it clear that his goals for the 2025 season do not revolve around rankings. Speaking candidly after his Brisbane International loss, the 29-year-old emphasized that his focus lies elsewhere.
“Look, I’m not playing for ranking points,” Kyrgios stated. “I have never played for ranking points. You know, I made the Wimbledon final being unseeded.”
For Kyrgios, the journey back to health and the joy of competing outweigh any aspirations of climbing the rankings. “For me, there is no ranking goal,” he said. “It’s more about just getting healthy, getting back playing, and enjoying the competition after the injury I had.”
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A Harsh Critique of the ATP Calendar
Kyrgios’ return also reignited his criticism of the ATP Tour’s grueling schedule. Describing the calendar as “ridiculous” and “absurd,” he pointed to the physical and mental toll it takes on players, particularly those from countries like Australia who face extended periods away from home.
“It’s absurd, really, the amount of travel we do,” Kyrgios said. “Considering we don’t even get paid what we are supposed to get paid, as well, which is a joke.”
The Australian also highlighted the personal sacrifices players make to compete at the highest level. “You don’t see your family or friends for six, seven, eight months if you’re playing a full schedule,” he explained.
Medvedev’s Fatigue Highlights the Issue
Kyrgios cited Daniil Medvedev’s behavior during the 2024 ATP Finals as a prime example of the toll the calendar takes on even the most disciplined players.
Medvedev, known for his composure, uncharacteristically received a code violation and point penalty for smashing his racket. He further shocked fans by holding the wrong side of his racket while awaiting a return. The Russian attributed his behavior to fatigue, which Kyrgios believes is a direct consequence of the overly demanding schedule.
“You’ve got guys like Medvedev towards the end of last season, returning with the other side of his racquet,” Kyrgios said. “He’s super-disciplined, and even he started to lose his mind a little bit because the season is just too long.”
A Broader Call for Change
Kyrgios is not alone in his criticism. Carlos Alcaraz and other top players have echoed concerns about the physical and mental strain caused by the ATP calendar. Alcaraz himself experienced a challenging 2024 season, failing to win a single tour-level title and exiting the ATP Finals in the group stage.
The debate over the ATP schedule has been a recurring topic, with many players advocating for a shorter season to allow for recovery and prevent burnout. Kyrgios’ outspoken nature ensures that the issue remains in the spotlight, but whether meaningful change will follow remains uncertain.
The Road Ahead
Despite his critiques, Kyrgios remains a vital part of the tennis world. His return brings excitement and unpredictability to the sport, qualities that have endeared him to fans worldwide.
Kyrgios and Medvedev are both set to compete at the Australian Open, beginning January 12. For Kyrgios, the tournament represents an opportunity to reignite his singles career and prove that he can still compete at the highest level.
As the tennis world watches his journey, Kyrgios’ comments serve as a reminder of the challenges faced by players on the ATP Tour. His call for a more balanced schedule could pave the way for discussions about the future of the sport, ensuring that its stars can thrive both on and off the court.
