Thanasi Kokkinakis didn't have great news after retiring injured from his Australian Open men's doubles clash with Nick Kyrgios, revealing that he will need "a serious surgical procedure" after going against the doctors and going out to the court.
ADVERTISEMENT
The world No. 71, who entered the Happy Slam dealing with a pectoral muscle issue, physically struggled against Jack Draper during a five-set second-round loss on Wednesday.
After the match, the 28-year-old said he likely wouldn't be able to play doubles.
However, Kokkinakis and Kyrgios did get on the court.
But after a set and a half of being in clear pain and discomfort, the world No. 71 said he couldn't continue as James Duckworth and Alexander Vukic - who were 7-5 3-2 up at that moment - progressed into the next round.
Kokkinakis: I can't serve, I can't hit a high forehand, I'm in a lot of pain
"The doctor advised me not to play and I'm going to need to do a serious procedure now, probably," the Australian shared.
ADVERTISEMENT
"I've got to speak to as many experts as I can, but I can't serve, I can't hit a high forehand and I'm in a lot of pain. I wanted to come out here - I know there was a lot of talk about us playing again - I wanted to see if I was somewhat competitive, even without a serve.
"I just wanted to get on court again with the big fella. Such great memories and we had a big crowd, we knew, waiting for us. Any other event, any other circumstance, I'm not stepping foot on court, for sure."
After losing in the Australian Open singles first round, Kyrgios hinted that this was probably his last appearance at Melbourne Park as a pro tennis player.
That's probably the reason why Kokkinakis pushed himself to play doubles in Australia with his good friend.
