Kyrgios Triumphs Over Corentin Moutet in Stuttgart
Nick Kyrgios has initiated his latest comeback by securing a straight-sets victory against world No. 36 Corentin Moutet in the opening round of the ATP tournament in Stuttgart.
The Australian player, who previously held a career-high ranking of No. 13 globally, had not competed in a singles match since the Brisbane International in January, where he was defeated in 66 minutes by world No. 58 Aleksandar Kovacevic.
Having missed the entire 2024 season, Kyrgios had managed only one singles win since October 2022 prior to this match.
Strong Performance Marks Return
At the Wimbledon warm-up event in Germany on Tuesday, the 31-year-old demonstrated a return to form with powerful serving and moments of flair, including drop shots and tweeners, to overcome French opponent Moutet 6-3, 6-4 in under an hour.
Following the match, Kyrgios expressed his satisfaction at being back on the court after having questioned his future in professional tennis.
“I had a wrist reconstruction, I’ve had four knee surgeries, so I’m really battling, but at the same time I’ve put in a lot of work, I’m really feeling good about myself,” he said.
“Honestly, there were so many times I was thinking: ‘Why am I playing? What more do I need to do?’ And I look at you guys and this is why I’m playing, so I’ll hang around a little longer.
“I’m pleased with the way I played today, I’m pleased with the way I’m feeling in my body, I’ve been putting in a lot of work so I’m just really happy to be back.”
Previous Comeback Attempts and Future Plans
Kyrgios’ earlier attempt at a comeback concluded with a first-round loss in mixed doubles alongside Thanasi Kokkinakis, where they were defeated by fellow Australians Jason Kubler and Marc Polmans.
After that defeat, Kyrgios indicated he would reconsider his schedule, stating,
“I’ve done everything I thought I could do. I don’t know. I don’t know what I’m going to do [going forward].”
These remarks sparked speculation about whether his professional tennis career might be nearing its end.
However, those doubts were temporarily dispelled following his successful return to the world circuit ahead of Wimbledon, where he had previously reached the final in 2022. A strong performance on the grass courts in Stuttgart could enhance his prospects for receiving a wildcard entry at Wimbledon.
“I’m so thrilled to be back, and playing some high-level tennis as well,” Kyrgios said.
“Confident? I don’t know if that is a word I’m feeling quite yet. Obviously, I will see how I feel tomorrow.”
Upcoming Matches
Kyrgios is scheduled to face Japan’s Sho Shimabukuro, ranked 101, on Thursday. Prior to that, he will participate in a doubles match alongside partner Alexander Bublik on Wednesday.
