Brisbane International: Nick Kyrgios loses on singles comeback before Novak Djokovic earns win
Backed once again by a passionate and partisan home crowd, Kyrgios showed plenty of talent to see him reach the 2022 Wimbledon final.
The former world No. 13 won a doubles match with one-time nemesis Novak Djokovic on Monday, showing injury problems have not diminished his serve – which has always been one of his greatest assets.
Kyrgios did not drop a single serve against No. 31 Perikad, saving two break points he faced.
But his problem is that Mpetshi Perricard – a 6-foot-8 serving machine who made stunning progress from outside the top 200 in the ATP rankings last season – serves even bigger.
Mpetshi Perricard fired 36 aces, won 89% of her first serve points, and saved two break points.
“Honestly, for me, considering I haven’t played in 18 months, it’s a good game. It’s exciting to be able to put myself in a position to win,” Kyrgios said.
“It’s great to be back out there and still be able to play at the same level with a guy like this who is having the best year of his career and is only going to get better.”
Later on Tuesday, 24-time Grand Slam champion Djokovic advanced to the second round with a solid performance in his first singles match since October.
The 37-year-old Serbian, who will be coached by the recently retired Andy Murray at the Australian Open, was impressive in his 6-3 6-3 victory over Australian wildcard Linky Hijikata.
“It’s very important to start the new season with a win,” said Djokovic, who is competing for the 100th career singles title.
“Rinky made me work to win.”
