Nick Kyrgios Joins 2026 Kooyong Classic
- The First Serve
- 7 minutes ago
- 2 min read
(Photo by Frey/TPN/Getty Images)
The 2026 Kooyong Classic has confirmed Nick Kyrgios (AUS) will return to the historic Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club this January.
A two-time competitor at the event, Kyrgios’ return brings significant profile and on-court intrigue as he prepares for a major summer of tennis.
“It’s great to see Nick back playing singles. He brings a level of shot-making genius and showmanship you simply don’t see every day. When he walks on court, you know something memorable is going to happen. It’s great to welcome him back to Kooyong.” said Tournament Director Peter Johnston.
Kyrgios joins recently confirmed World No. 22 Flavio Cobolli (ITA), fresh from helping Italy secure a historic Davis Cup three-peat. Cobolli’s addition strengthens an already formidable Italian contingent featuring former World No. 6 Matteo Berrettini (ITA), himself a back-to-back Davis Cup champion, and current World No. 8 Lorenzo Musetti (ITA), a member of Italy's 2023 Davis Cup triumph.
Together, the announcements build on what is shaping up to be one of Kooyong’s strongest and most internationally diverse fields in the event’s recent history.
“Kooyong continues to attract players who want proper match preparation before the Australian Open. With Nick joining the line-up and several new names still to be added, this year’s field offers strong matchups and plenty for fans to follow.” Johnston added.
Subscribe to The First Serve via your preferred podcast platform and listen when it suits to our library of content, including The First Serve Live, our themed podcasts and our Aussie interviews on the road.
2026 Player Field
Men’s Field
Lorenzo Musetti (ITA) – World No. 8
Alexander Bublik (KAZ) – World No. 11
Nick Kyrgios (AUS) - Former World No. 13
Karen Khachanov (RUS) – World No. 18
Flavio Cobolli (ITA) - World No. 22
Learner Tien (USA) – World No. 28
Matteo Berrettini (ITA) – World No. 56 (Former World No. 6)
Hubert Hurkacz – World No. 73 (Former World No. 6)
Marin Čilić (CRO) – World No. 75 (Former World No. 3)
Zhang Zhizhen (CHN) – China’s No. 1 Player (Former World No. 31)
Women’s Field
Donna Vekić (CRO) – World No. 72 (Former World No. 17)
Daniela Hantuchová (SVK) – Former World No. 5 (Guest Appearance)
Further player announcements and updates to come in the lead-up to the event.
For further event information head to: www.kooyongclassic.com.au
Whether you're stepping on court for the first time or chasing championship points, Yonex Tennis has the racquet to power your play with cutting edge design and pro level performance in every swing. Find your at www.yonex.com
