Better late than never for Kyrgios in Italy

Nick Kyrgios was heading to Turin on Saturday from Australia in what will be a last-second arrival into the double draw of the ATP Finals.

The Wimbledon singles finalist last made a tournament appearance in October a month ago in Tokyo, handing in a walkover in the quarter-finals due to injury.

After saying  he would not compete again prior to Christmas the No. 22 is heading halfway around the world to team with best mate Thanasi Kokknakis as Australian Open doubles winners.

Kyrgios spent June through to early October on the road, and said that being away from his ailing parents and the rest of his family – even travelling with his girlfriend – was too tough mentally.

But he is keen to kick start 2023 at home, playing for Australia in the new ATP-WTA United Cup to be held in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney.

 “I’m not going to play any more (this season),” he said before boarding his flight to Europe.

“I don’t want to sacrifice time at home. If I play more I don’t have that time at home, especially with the way my mum is progressing, being here with my girlfriend at home in Sydney.

“I don’t want to give up too much time on the road. Five or six months on the road is more than enough for me.”

Main photo:- Thanasi Kokkinasis and Nick Kyrgios win Australian Open 2022 Men’s Doubles Final by – Roger Parker International Sports Fotos Ltd