Nick Kyrgios returns to action for the first time since March.
The Australian last played at the Miami Open four months ago and he was bitterly disappointed to miss the Wimbledon Championships.
But the 30-year-old has always enjoyed playing in the United States and he aims to make a big impression in the run-up to the US Open.
Kyrgios will begin his comeback at the Citi Open in Washington D.C., an event where he has enjoyed plenty of success.
Nick Kyrgios says why he ‘enjoys’ playing at the Citi Open
Nick Kyrgios has made no secret of his love for the Citi Open in America’s capital. He has won the tournament on two occasions, including during the 2022 season, the best of his career so far.
Therefore, it comes as no surprise that the former world number 13 chose the Citi Open at the tournament to make his comeback.
Explaining what he likes about the tournament, Kyrgios said: “It’s been a difficult last couple years, that’s for sure. But something about DC always brings out the best in me for some reason.
“I really enjoy playing here, the energy, the crowds. I feel so welcome. I literally walk through the gates and the people are just so nice, coming for autographs and just photos. They’re just so friendly.
“But yeah, for me, just to be able to take the court, obviously I wanted to play singles, but six weeks ago I had a bit of a niggle with my knee.
“I’m just going to take a bit more time with that to get to the singles court, but I’m happy to get out there and, get in front of the fans. I mean, I was about to say home fans, that’s how much I feel at home here, yeah. It is special.”
Nick Kyrgios loses opening doubles match with Gael Monfils at the Citi Open
Kyrgios made his return to the court alongside Gael Monfils in doubles action.
The pair took on Édouard Roger-Vasselin and Hugo Nys, who were seeded number three in Washington.
Kyrgios and Monfils won just four games in a comprehensive defeat, and Kyrgios appeared to be in discomfort towards the end of the match.
Despite losing in just 58 minutes, Kyrgios was happy to be back on court and hopes to continue making progress with his fitness.
“Knee cooked but fans still f*****ed with us,” he wrote on Instagram. He added: “He wanted to play singles, but six weeks ago I had a bit of a niggle with my knee. So it’s just going to take a bit more time.”
