Kokk KO’d by Kyrgios AO absence

The Australian Open pullout by injured Nick Kyrgios has had a devastating knock-on effect on best mate Thanasi Kokkinakis.

With Kyrgios skipping the Open next month due to continuing problems with recovery from knee and wrist problems, the door to Grand Slam doubles has been slammed shut on the 65th-ranked Kokkinakis, – himself a noted chronic injury victim.

Australian speculation continues as to how long the 28-year-old Kyrgios will remain in the game which for him is clearly second to his first love – the NBA.

Kokkinakis and Kyrgios – the Special Ks – won the 2022 Australian Open doubles title which sparked something of a national celebration..

But the longtime pair of mates have not teamed up since.

Kokkinakis has competed only five times in Melbourne singles, reaching the second round in two of the last three editions.

Kyrgios, who pulled out of the major this weekend, is expected to pick up some loose change as a part-time colour TV commentator during the Open which begins on January 14.

Main photo:- Nick Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis celebrate winning Men’s doubles Australian Open Tennis 2022 by Karl Winter International Sports Fotos Ltd