Australian Open Update: Rafael Nadal Included in Entry List, Nick Kyrgios Missing

Rafael Nadal, a two-time winner, is set to participate in the Australian Open after a year sidelined by injury, while it appears that Nick Kyrgios may be absent from the January event.

Nadal, aged 37, has not competed since sustaining a hip flexor injury during the previous Australian Open. He recently announced plans to return to competition at the Brisbane International in January.

Australian player Nick Kyrgios, 28, has experienced a challenging 2023, missing all four major tournaments due to injuries. The 2022 Wimbledon finalist has been dealing with issues in his wrist, knee, and foot. Last month, he mentioned that it would require perfect circumstances for him to be ready for the upcoming major tournament, though he could potentially receive a wildcard entry.

Novak Djokovic, the defending champion and current world number one, is aiming for an unprecedented 11th men’s Australian Open title and his 25th Grand Slam victory. Nadal, his longtime competitor with 22 major titles, hinted that 2024 might be his final year in professional tennis.

The women’s competition will feature world number one Iga Swiatek and world number two Aryna Sabalenka, the defending champion, renewing their rivalry. Also returning to Melbourne Park are former champions Naomi Osaka, Caroline Wozniacki, and Angelique Kerber, each of whom took breaks from the tour for maternity leave.

From Great Britain, Andy Murray, Cameron Norrie, Jack Draper, Katie Boulter, and Jodie Burrage have secured direct entries into the tournament.

The Australian Open is scheduled to start on January 14 and conclude with the men’s singles final on January 28.