Canberra star Nick Kyrgios withdraws from key Australian Open lead-in event

Fans will have to wait longer for Nick Kyrgios’ return to the court after he withdrew from an Australian Open lead-in event.

Nick Kyrgios’ Australian Open preparations have taken a hit, with the Canberra star withdrawing from his Melbourne Summer Set opener with asthma.

Kyrgios was set to headline the Tuesday night session at Melbourne Park against Slovak Alex Molcan in what would have been his first tour match since his first-round US Open defeat.

The 26-year-old’s involvement in next week’s Sydney Tennis Classic remains in doubt, too, but he is still aiming to make his season debut there.

A lucky loser will replace Kyrgios, who tested negative to Covid-19 multiple times in recent days.

“I’m really sorry that I’ve had to pull out from this Melbourne Summer Set event,” Kyrgios said in a statement.

Nick Kyrgios’ start to the Australian tennis summer has been delayed. Picture: AFP

“I have been feeling run down and unwell for four days. I have had several Covid tests over the last few days, which all came back negative.

“I don’t feel 100 per cent, so I need to take this week to be ready for Sydney next week.

“I was really looking forward to experiencing the best fans in the world here at home. I can’t wait to get back out there and see you all. Take care out there and see you soon.”

Kyrgios’ only competitive play since then was representing Team World at the Laver Cup in Boston in September.

The world No.93 has previously discussed how he suffered from bad asthma as a child.