In an exciting announcement last week, the Brisbane International confirmed that Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios will receive a main-draw wild card for the upcoming tournament. Kyrgios, who only managed to participate in five matches throughout the entire 2025 season, will be looking to make a notable return to the ATP circuit after struggling with injuries. He competed early in the Australian summer, playing at both the Brisbane event and the Australian Open, but faced challenges during his subsequent entries in Indian Wells and Miami. As a former champion of the Brisbane International, having claimed the title in 2018, he currently holds a ranking of No. 671 in the world.
Tournament director Cameron Pearson expressed enthusiasm about Kyrgios’s participation, highlighting his popularity among local fans. “Nick has long been a favorite with Brisbane crowds and will be a major drawcard for fans,” Pearson stated. “He thrives on the big stage. I’m thrilled to welcome him back to Brisbane and can’t wait to watch him perform in front of a passionate home crowd.”
Kyrgios is also set to team up with his fellow Australian Thanasi Kokkinakis in the doubles category at the tournament. The duo celebrated remarkable success together, winning the Australian Open doubles title in 2022.
The Brisbane International, a pivotal ATP 250 event that kicks off the 2026 ATP season, begins on January 5. The tournament will feature an impressive array of players including Daniil Medvedev, Tommy Paul, Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, Jiri Lehecka, Denis Shapovalov, Joao Fonseca, Frances Tiafoe, and Grigor Dimitrov, making it a must-watch event for tennis enthusiasts.
In a unique addition to his schedule, Kyrgios is also scheduled to participate in a much-anticipated “Battle of the Sexes” exhibition match against top WTA player Aryna Sabalenka, slated for Sunday night, further building excitement around his return to competitive play. With such a line-up and Kyrgios’s comeback in the spotlight, the Brisbane International promises to be an electrifying season opener.
