Australian tennisman Nick Kyrgios will not be gracing the clay courts of the French Open this year. The reason behind this unfortunate development is not the usual suspect of a sports injury, but rather an incident as dramatic as it is distressing: a robbery.
Kyrgios, who made waves in the tennis world with his runner-up finish at Wimbledon last year, suffered a foot injury during a robbery at his home in Canberra earlier this month. His agent, Daniel Horsfall, confirmed the news, painting a picture of a high-adrenaline situation that led to the tennis star lacerating his foot.
The incident, which took place on May 1, was not just a simple theft. Kyrgios’ mother was reportedly held at gunpoint, and his Tesla was stolen. Amidst the chaos, Kyrgios sustained an injury to his foot. “With all the stuff that was going on, Nick lacerated the side of his left foot. We don’t know how,” Horsfall explained.
You maybe interest to read:
A Clay Court Without Its King: Rafael Nadal Bows Out of French Open 2023
Jokić’s Triple-Double Triumph: Nuggets Clinch Game 1 Against Lakers
High Anticipation Ahead of the Debut McLaren Trophy
The injury has set back Kyrgios’ training schedule by approximately two-and-a-half weeks, a crucial period in the lead-up to a grand slam event. The setback is particularly disappointing given that Kyrgios was on the road to recovery following knee surgery at the beginning of the year. His last tournament appearance was in Tokyo in October, and he had been hoping to make his return at the French Open.
Despite the foot injury, Horsfall assures fans that Kyrgios’ overall fitness is in excellent shape. “His knee, as far as we’re concerned, is actually in fantastic shape, the surgery went well. His fitness is at a fantastic level,” he said. However, the foot laceration has made practice difficult, as every time Kyrgios put on a shoe, the wound would reopen.
Looking ahead, Kyrgios is planning to return to the tour in Stuttgart, Germany, at the beginning of June. In the meantime, the family is dealing with the aftermath of the robbery. “The family has had it rough during the last month,” Horsfall told CNN, acknowledging the impact on not just Nick and his mother Nill, but also his sister Hali and partner Costeen.
The French Open, which begins on May 22 and runs until June 11, will certainly feel the absence of the charismatic Australian. Tournament organizers have confirmed Kyrgios’ withdrawal but have not provided any further information.
Click on this link to read this article in French version
