Nick Kyrgios wins on ATP Tour for first time since 2022, joins Aussie number one Kimberly Birrell in second round at Miami Open

Australian player Nick Kyrgios overcame a slow start in the first round of the Miami Open, defeating American Mackenzie McDonald. Kyrgios rallied from a set down to win 3-6, 6-3, 6-4, marking his first tour-level victory since 2022. This win provides a positive momentum for him to continue improving his performance.

This victory also earned him a second-round match against Russian player Karen Khachanov. Kyrgios expressed his delight at returning to the court, but emphasized he wouldn't get carried away. "Being back out here and getting a win makes me feel like I belong again, it's special," he said, appreciating the chance to compete.

Kyrgios confessed, "To be honest, I never thought I'd be back playing tennis again. I had multiple conversations with my team... I said, 'I don't know how much longer I'll be out here.' This win gives me some motivation, but I need to stay realistic and see how my wrist feels tomorrow because the competition here is very tough." He remains cautious about his physical condition and future matches.

The 2022 Wimbledon finalist, who was once ranked No. 13 in the ATP Tour, is currently ranked No. 892. Prior to the Miami Open, he retired early from the Indian Wells Open due to a wrist injury. Additionally, Kyrgios is listed as one of the plaintiffs in the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) lawsuit against tennis governing bodies, alleging anti-competitive practices and disregard for player welfare. This showcases his involvement in broader issues within the sport.

Meanwhile, in other first-round matches at the Miami Open, Tristan Schoolkate defeated Ethan Quinn 6-0, 6-2, and Rinky Hijikata narrowly defeated Hamad Medjedovic 7-5, 3-6, 7-5. However, Aleksandar Vukic lost to Belgian veteran David Goffin 2-6, 6-4, 6-2, and Chris O'Connell narrowly lost to Spanish player Roberto Carballes Baena 6-3, 3-6, 7-6 (7-5). These results highlight the varied outcomes for other players in the tournament.

On the women's side, Kimberly Birrell is the only remaining Australian player in the Miami Open. She fought hard to save a match point and ultimately defeated Anastasia Potapova in a tenacious three-set first-round match. With Ajla Tomljanovic being eliminated by American qualifier Bernarda Pera, Birrell, from Queensland, has become Australia's hope in the women's competition, and her ranking has risen to a career-high of No. 68. Her performance is a positive sign for Australian women's tennis.

Birrell defeated Potapova for the second time in the past two months. She defeated the Russian player in straight sets at the Brisbane International in January this year, eventually reaching her first WTA 500 event quarterfinal. This victory earned Birrell a second-round match against Ukrainian player Marta Kostyuk, the 23rd seed in this tournament. The upcoming match will be a significant challenge for Birrell.