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via Reuters

via Reuters

In a development that will come as no surprise to longtime observers, controversial Australian star

Nick Kyrgios has fallen out of the top 100 in the ATP rankings after 52 weeks of battling near-constant injury issues with his left knee and wrist. The mercurial talent tweeted on Monday that his withdrawal due to nagging injuries had seen him unable to defend ranking points over the past year.

The slump in Kyrgios’ ranking is a steep fall from his career-high ATP singles ranking of world No. 13 in 2016. When fit and focused, the 28-year-old possesses the talent to compete with the best players in the world. However, keeping his body in shape has proved a constant struggle.

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Injuries take their toll on Nick Kyrgios

Kyrgios’ ranking freefall caps a tumultuous 2022 season that was plagued by physical setbacks from the start. He underwent knee surgery in January and struggled with both abdominal and shoulder issues throughout the year. Only four tournaments saw the 28-year-old complete a full week of play, with retirements or early losses in other events.

Nick Kyrgios was forced to withdraw from the tournament in July and then the year’s final grand slam. He currently ranks No. 92 in the world; the ranking, which had risen back inside the top 30 last season, plummeted as a result of the lengthy injury absence.

“It’s been a tough one health wise,” Kyrgios stated. “52 weeks…too many injuries and surgeries over the last 12 months. I want to be fully recovered and ready to play at 100% again.”

Read More: Who is Nick Kyrgios’ Ex-Girlfriend, Ajla Tomljanovic? Is She Dating Matteo Berrettini Now?

An Uncertain Comeback Timeline for Kyrgios

When asked on Twitter about plans for his return to competitive tennis, Kyrgios provided little clarity, saying only that he’s “not sure” about a comeback timeline yet. The lack of a firm target will raise further questions about the motivations driving his involvement in the sport.

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Fans and pundits have long debated whether Kyrgios truly wants the grinding commitment required to maintain a high-level career. His injuries and surgeries may force an answer to that question sooner rather than later.

via Imago

Kyrgios is focusing all his energy on fully recovering and regaining his fitness before contemplating a return to the tour. The road back from such a lengthy period on the sidelines will be a long one. He will need to slowly build back his power and stamina through rehabilitation and practice.

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How long it may take Nick Kyrgios to regain full fitness and return to competitive tennis remains uncertain. If he can follow a disciplined recovery program and avoid further setbacks, fans could see him back on the court in 2023.