Everyone’s got an opinion in the tennis world, and Thanasi Kokkinakis has his own to counter them. After hoping to kick off his 2025 season at the Brisbane International, the Aussie made it to the quarterfinals before he had to pull out of the match due to a right shoulder injury. And recently, he delivered a strong performance against Russia’s Roman Saifullin at the Australian Open. However, former tennis pro-Todd Woodbridge criticized Kokkinakis for his tour decisions.

Ahead of the match against Tomas Martin Etcheverry, it was revealed that Woodbridge didn’t hold back in criticizing Thanasi Kokkinakis. He slammed Kokkinakis for prioritizing lucrative exhibition matches in Russia over his Australian Open prep, suggesting that his injury woes might be self-inflicted. Woodbridge pointed out that Kokkinakis should rethink his schedule and focus on his career rather than chasing quick cash. “That kind of schedule can hurt you at the start of the year,” he warned, urging the Aussie to get serious about his tennis future.

After winning his first-round match with a 3-6, 6-3, 6-3, 7-6 (7-5) score despite pain, he addressed Woodbridge’s comments in the post-match press conference. He said, “I mean, that’s fine. It’s trying to make a good living as well; that’s why he’s trying to host every game show there is under the sun. So, we’re trying to make a living as much as he is.” Pointing out that Woodbridge has hosted various shows like Tipping Point and Nine Network’s Olympic coverage. Not to mention that during his time, the former pro also competed in many exhibitions as well. It’s how every player makes their money.

Kokkinakis added, “Unfortunately, ATP sometimes if you make a semi-final of a 250 event, you don’t get as much as what you would playing an exhibition.” He has been vocal about the season being too long and suggested limiting events after the Paris Masters in late October. Reflecting on his career, he said, “As far as trying to do what’s best for your career and best for the rankings, it’s a tricky one. Obviously, it’s a lot less stress on my body, a lot less stressed mentally.”

He has faced numerous bodily difficulties including, abdominal and groin issues, shoulder surgery, and stress fractures that have hindered his potential and led him to contemplate retirement: “I lost a lot of years and a lot of money not playing with injuries and whatnot.” But frustrated with outside opinions, he stated, “It’s tough when people comment when they have no idea about the injury or what sort of tennis I’m playing through. I haven’t lost this year.” While his latest injury isn’t expected to sideline him for long, he’s turning over a new leaf this year and gearing up to team up with Nick Kyrgios at the Australian Open.

The Aussie’s set to team up despite ongoing injury woes

Kokkinakis and Kyrgios once thrilled fans during their unforgettable run to the 2022 Australian Open men’s doubles title and they’re eager to reignite that magic in 2025! Despite injuries raising doubts about their comeback, they’ve chosen to endure for their love of the game at the Australian Open. Kokkinakis stated, “Both of us kind of made a little bit of a pact—unless we are seriously, seriously hurt, like badly—we’re going to try and come out there even if we’re not feeling great.”

Kyrgios is stepping back into the spotlight after nearly 18 months away from competitive tennis. Concerns about his readiness surfaced when he withdrew from an exhibition match against Novak Djokovic earlier this week, citing ongoing injury issues. He confirmed his withdrawal on January 8, saying, “I didn’t want to just throw in the towel and walk off or retire. I was hurting physically. I respect my opponent. The fans waited hours to come see me play.” Meanwhile, Kokkinakis faced shoulder problems during the Adelaide International, but their determination to push through adds excitement to their return.

However, he lost his first round at AO to Jacob Fearnley and shared his thoughts on competing through discomfort post-match. He said, “I’ve put in a lot of work. I think it was, like, I didn’t play a Grand Slam for 800-something days, 859 days or something. I continued to stay motivated through all those days when I was watching everyone else play, I was on the couch like in a cast. I stayed motivated.” Now he’s teaming up with Kokkinakis for doubles as the 28-year-old prepares for his match against Jack Draper in round two. Will they bring the heat? Share your thoughts below!