Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios has decided to withdraw from the 2023 US Open. This setback further delays his anticipated return to the Grand Slam stage, adding to the list of tournaments he has missed due to injury-related concerns. Last year, Kyrgios made it to the quarterfinals of the US Open, the farthest he has ever gone. 

Kyrgios, 28, encountered a wrist injury that prompted his withdrawal from Wimbledon in July. This ailment follows a series of other injuries that kept him sidelined for the Australian and French Opens this year. Back in January, he was unable to participate in his home Grand Slam due to a knee injury and later had to skip Roland Garros due to a foot injury.

Kyrgios’ candidness about his feelings towards the sport has often garnered attention. During a pre-Wimbledon news conference in July, he was asked if he missed tennis during his periods away from the game. In response, he admitted, “No, I don’t miss the sport at all, to be fair. I was almost dreading coming back a little bit,” even delivering the statement with a faint smile. “But it’s my job,” he added.

As a result of his extended absence from competitive tennis, Kyrgios has fallen to 92 in the tennis ranking. While his talent and charisma on the court have earned him a devoted fan base, the injuries have posed significant challenges to his career trajectory.

But Kyrgios is not the sole player dealing with setbacks. Jan-Lennard Struff from Germany has also withdrawn from the upcoming US Open, making way for Argentine players Diego Schwartzman and Facundo Diaz Acosta to enter the Main Draw. The US Open is one of the most intense competitions that demands a lot from players. In the coming days, we may likely witness other players, including top-ranked stars, pull out of the event. 

Leon Osamor