Nick Kyrgios aiming for Indian Wells return after surgery, says manager following Australian Open absence

Nick Kyrgios is planning to return to the ATP Tour at Indian Wells after undergoing knee surgery, according to his manager.

Kyrgios, 27, hasn’t played competitively this season due to injury.

He was forced to withdraw from the inaugural United Cup and then the Australian Open as his hopes of challenging for a Grand Slam title in Melbourne were dashed for another year.

He also missed out on the chance to defend his men’s doubles title with Thanasi Kokkinakis.

Kyrgios underwent surgery last week and his manager Daniel Horsfall hopes he will be back on tour in time for the first Masters 1000 event of the season at Indian Wells, which starts on March 8.

“The surgery was a great success,” Horsfall told Australian newspapers The Herald and The Age.

“We couldn’t have been more pleased with the outcome of it. Now we will be pushing ahead for a speedy recovery and are aiming to see everyone at Indian Wells.”

Kyrgios is a two-time quarter-finalist on the hard courts at Indian Wells.

He enjoyed a career-best year in 2022 as he reached his first Grand Slam final at Wiimbledon and finished with a 37-10 win-loss record.

“For now, Mumma K [Nick’s mother, Nill Kyrgios] will have her work cut out for her having everyone around the home for a little while,” added Horsfall.

“Nick will stay back in Canberra. His plan is to eat delicious food and play a lot of Pokemon.

“But on a more serious note, Will [physiotherapist Will Maher] and NK will be in the gym still working on the rest of his body to make sure he stays fit and fresh in the meantime.”

Kyrgios was set to be among the favourites for the Australian Open title following his impressive form last year.

Djokovic is bidding for a 10th title in Melbourne.

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