But Nick Kyrgios has now overcome his injury nightmare and will return to action on home soil at the Brisbane International.

The draw has been released and the 29-year-old will not have it easy in his first match since June 2023.

Who will Nick Kyrgios face in his first match at the Brisbane International?

Kyrgios chose the Brisbane International as the tournament in which to make his return to tennis.

They are certainly familiar surroundings, as Kyrgios won the event back in 2018, which marked the fourth title win of his career.

The former World number 13 will go in search of his second title when he commences another campaign in Brisbane but he faces a tricky opening tie.

Kyrgios’ first match will be against Frenchman Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, who was voted the ATP’s most improved player for 2024 after winning the first two titles of his career.

The Australian will be given no time to find rhythm against the 21-year-old, who possesses an attacking game with a thunderous serve and big groundstrokes.

Kyrgios has some heavy artillery of his own, and the pair have the weapons to produce an excellent contest. Kyrgios’ Brisbane doubles partner Novak Djokovic, is the top seed in Brisbane and will face Rinky Hijikatain in his opening match.

Nick Kyrgios thrilled be back in action at the Brisbane International

It has been a long road to recovery for Kyrgios, who even began working in commentary and presenting during his time away from the game.

He has not played in Australia since January 2022 and is grateful to be have the chance to be back on court once again.

“I’m obviously a little bit, I don’t know if I’d call it nervous… When I was hitting on stadium, playing [Reilly Opelka] that’s also had a couple injuries, I guess we just reflected,” he said. “It was surreal to be back out there. I took it all in.

“I’m really excited to just go out there and play, just play tennis. I saw Novak in the gym, playing doubles with him, a lot to be excited about that I’m able to get out there and compete again.”

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