Britain's Jacob Fearnley Upsets Nick Kyrgios in Australian Open

Nick Kyrgios' Australian Open return was short-lived as he was defeated by Britain's Jacob Fearnley in straight sets, reigniting fitness concerns.

Nick Kyrgios' highly anticipated Australian Open return was cut short on Monday, as the injury-plagued Australian was defeated in straight sets by Britain's Jacob Fearnley. The combustible home hero, known for his explosive behavior on court, exited the tournament in the first round, firing expletives at his coaching box in frustration.

Fearnley, 23, quietened Melbourne's notoriously noisy night crowd at John Cain Arena with a controlled 7-6(3), 6-3, 7-6(2) victory over Kyrgios, the 2022 Wimbledon finalist. Kyrgios had only made his comeback after 18 months out in Brisbane earlier this month, following knee surgery and wrist reconstruction. However, his fitness concerns were reignited when he withdrew from an exhibition match against Novak Djokovic four days ago with an abdominal strain.

Kyrgios' fitness woes were evident during the match, as he spoke to physios multiple times in the second set after wincing in pain while serving. Despite his efforts, Kyrgios was unable to overcome his physical limitations and ultimately succumbed to defeat. Fearnley's victory marked a significant upset, as Kyrgios had been hoping to make a deep run in his home Grand Slam tournament.

Jacob Fearnley is all business on JCA!

The Brit kept his nerve to jag the first, before breaking early to nab the second.

He leads 7-6(3) 6-3@wwos • @espn • @eurosport • @wowowtennis • #AusOpen • #AO2025 pic.twitter.com/AZiOKaYp8i

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 13, 2025

Following his impressive victory, Jacob Fearnley expressed sympathy for his opponent, Nick Kyrgios. “I'm sorry for Nick,” Fearnley said. “I could tell he was dealing with some issues.” Fearnley acknowledged the challenging crowd, stating, “I knew I wasn't going to be able to get you guys on my side.” Instead, he focused on his own game, aiming to “play my game and do the best I could to try to move past every point.” Fearnley reflected on his performance, saying, “I think all things considered, it's probably the best match I've ever played.”

The first set saw limited opportunities for breaks, with both players relying on strong serving. However, Fearnley took control in the tiebreak, racing to a 6-1 lead with a cross-court pass and an ace. Kyrgios managed to save two set points with powerful serves, but Fearnley ultimately sealed the set in 45 minutes. This marked a significant milestone for Fearnley, who was making his Australian Open debut.

Nothing between Nick Kyrgios Jacob Fearnley in the early going. We're on serve through eight games of the first set.

Anyone want to guess what'll happen next?#AO2025 pic.twitter.com/K0yhx4NRfM

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 13, 2025

As the match progressed, Kyrgios's frustration grew, and he unleashed a verbal tirade at his coaching box during the break between sets. Despite this, Fearnley remained composed and broke early in the second set, closing out the set comfortably. Kyrgios's outbursts continued, with him shouting, “What's the point, boys?” at his team. He added, “I'm going to keep going until I can't any more.”

Fearnley secured another early break in the third set, but Kyrgios refused to give up. Despite being in pain, Kyrgios broke back and served out to love, leading 4-3 and eliciting a massive roar from the crowd. Kyrgios's energy was short-lived, as Fearnley kept his cool to stave off the danger. Fearnley ultimately clinched the match in another tiebreak, advancing to the second round in two hours and 19 minutes.

Fearnley's victory marked only his third ATP main Tour match win, building on his four Challenger-level titles from last year. He will face Arthur Cazaux of France in the second round, looking to continue his impressive run at the Australian Open.