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| Nick Kyrgios practices for the Australian Open at Melbourne Park. Photo: AAP/Joel Carrett |
Playing his first Grand Slam since reaching the 2022 US Open quarter-finals, Nick Kyrgios faces British world No.86 Jacob Fearnley, provided he can overcome an abdominal strain that forced his withdrawal from an exhibition match this week in Melbourne.
It’s a good outcome for Kyrgios who has entered the event with a protected ranking after his long injury lay-off.
Fearnley doesn’t necessarily represent a tough encounter for Kyrgios.
The 29-year-old said serving is off the cards for a few days to give himself every chance to be fit for the start of the Open on Sunday.
He’ll carefully monitor the final stages of his preparations for his home slam after a fresh injury threatened his involvement.
Thanasi Kokkinakis has drawn Roman Safiullin, in what will be the pairs first ever meeting, while Stefanos Tsitsipas, who is 11th seed, comes up against Alex Michelsen.
The two have played once before in Tokyo last year where the American bested the Greek.
On the women’s side, 31st seed Maria Sakkari comes up against Camila Osorio.
The Australian Open begins on Sunday. Schedules are released at approximately 6pm AEDT on the day prior to play.
All four are scheduled to play on Sunday January 12, with exact times to be confirmed. Subject to change*
With AAP
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