Heartbreak for Aussie fans as Thanasi Kokkinakis pulls out of the Australian Open singles! It's a tough blow for the local hero, but here's the full story.
On Thursday, Thanasi Kokkinakis announced his withdrawal from the Australian Open singles tournament. This news came via his Instagram Stories, where he shared his disappointment.
"Unfortunately after speaking with my team and doctors I have made the decision to pull out of the @AustralianOpen singles," Kokkinakis wrote. "After an incredibly tough year this was the event I was looking forward to the most but I’m not ready yet. I’m doing everything I can every day to be back to 100%.”
Kokkinakis's journey to this point has been challenging. Last week, at the Adelaide International, he played his first singles match in almost a year, triumphing over Sebastian Korda in a thrilling final-set tie-break. However, the victory came at a cost.
Throughout the match, Kokkinakis battled with his right shoulder, a lingering issue from pectoral surgery he underwent last February. This led to his withdrawal from the Adelaide tournament on Wednesday.
But here's where it gets controversial... While singles is off the table, there's still hope for fans! The 29-year-old is aiming to compete in the doubles event at Melbourne Park. He's got a winning history there, having clinched the title with Nick Kyrgios in 2022.
“We will still try and step out for the doubles and have some fun,” Kokkinakis wrote. “Thank you to everyone who supports me.”
What do you think? Are you disappointed about Kokkinakis's withdrawal from the singles? Do you think he'll be able to make a strong comeback in doubles? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
