Nick Kyrgios is not ready to give up on his playing career, and it looks like his return to the tour is getting closer.
The mercurial Australian has been sidelined for over a year with knee and wrist injuries. Kyrgios rushed his comeback at last year's grass-court swing, where he played his one and only match of the season in Stuttgart and looked woefully out of form.
His long road to returning to full fitness has tested his resolve on whether it may be worth all the hassle. Kyrgios is one of the most influential tennis personalities away from the court.
When he's not playing regularly, he works part-time as a commentator and has received positive messages thanks to his unscripted and sharp insight into his fellow players.
Additionally, he launched his own podcast earlier this year called "Good Trouble with Nick Kyrgios," which, according to its mission statement, aims to delve into "the personal journeys of individuals who are making waves by doing things on their own terms."
The 28-year-old has delayed his comeback multiple times in the past, withdrawing from all four Grand Slam tournaments in 2024 and high-profile exhibitions like the Ultimate Tennis Showdown and the Desert Smash.
But his injury nightmare appears to have ended, judging by his most recent Instagram post. Kyrgios shared a picture of himself on the tennis courts along with the message of his optimistic return.
"First hit in 8 months after wrist surgery. Slowly I'm coming baby."
"Hey, guys. As you know, it's my first hit today. Super excited, wrist feels good. Just icing it right now. Doing all the right things."
Having been ranked at a career-high ranking of World No. 12, injury derailed Kyrgios' progress at the height of his best form. In some of his interviews in the past year, Kyrgos has detailed incidences where he contemplated quitting only to find a dose of energy and prolong his career.