Nick Kyrgios made his long-awaited return to the tennis courts on Monday afternoon at the Brisbane International alongside 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic.
The Australian tennis star has played just once competitively in the past two years, and last year underwent wrist reconstruction surgery.
Kyrgios and Djokovic sealed an entertaining 4-6, 7-6, 8-10 victory at Pat Rafter Stadium against Alexander Erler and Andreas Mies.
The match itself felt more like an exhibition event, with Kyrgios and Djokovic showing off some sensational tricks and talking during the game.
At one point, Djokovic managed a remarkable shot around the net, while Kyrgios, playing at home, took advantage of the support of the fans inside the arena, before scoring a goal.
“I'm happy to share the court with Nick on his return,” Djokovic said after the match, to which Kyrgios responded: “I told Novak, 'You're the best of all time, go ahead.'”
But fans on social media have marveled at Kyrgios' sensational return and how entertaining the two were.
“Djokovic and Kyrgios are bringing the magic to Brisbane… That winner at the net was pure magic,” wrote one on X.
Another added: “I have to say: 'Kyrgios looks dangerously strong out there, after two years without playing!' I look forward to tomorrow's singles.”
“It's like I never left #Kyrgios,” another added.
“Bringing some action to an otherwise stale sport, I love seeing him back on the court.”
More to follow…