The Special Ks Are Back! Melbourne is set to witness the electrifying return of Thanasi Kokkinakis and Nick Kyrgios. Yes! the dynamic duo that captivated fans during their unforgettable run to the 2022 Australian Open men’s doubles title. Injuries may have cast doubt on their return, but they are determined to reignite the same magic on the court in 2025.

What’s their secret to pushing through? They’ve made a pact—and it shows just how much they’re willing to endure for the game they love. Two years ago, the duo thrilled the home crowd with their unfiltered energy and undeniable chemistry, claiming victory over fellow Aussies Max Purcell and Matthew Ebden in the final. Their journey to the top became a fan-favorite story and cemented their status as a must-watch pairing.

Their return is a testament to their determination to keep entertaining fans despite the physical toll. Ahead of the tournament, Kokkinakis shared insight into their unwavering commitment to the sport. “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,” Kokkinakis revealed during a press conference.

Kyrgios is stepping back into the spotlight after nearly 18 months away from competitive tennis. Fans were worried about his readiness after he withdrew from an exhibition match against Novak Djokovic earlier this week. On Wednesday, he posted an update on Instagram confirming his withdrawal, citing ongoing injury concerns.

Kyrgios began his 2025 season at the Brisbane International but showed signs of struggle. During his match against Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, he required on-court medical attention, still recovering from wrist surgery. With Melbourne on the horizon, doubts about his participation grew stronger after his exhibition withdrawal. But those fears were eased when Kyrgios hit the practice courts in Melbourne on Thursday, signaling his intent to compete.

While Kyrgios battles his recovery, Kokkinakis is also facing significant challenges. The Aussie was forced to pull out of the Adelaide International last week due to a right shoulder injury. After a grueling three-hour match against Tomas Martin Etcheverry, Kokkinakis couldn’t continue into the quarterfinals, citing persistent pain.

Despite these hurdles, the Special Ks are pushing forward. Their return is set to reignite the doubles action. And fans are eager to see the chemistry that made them such a hit in 2022.

Nick Kyrgios-Thanasi Kokkinakis to prioritize singles before doubles at the Australian Open

Although fans are thrilled to see the duo back, they have made it clear that singles will take priority this year. Speaking about their approach to doubles, Kokkinakis had told reporters, “It’s definitely not going to be the priority for us, (but) we feel like we owe it to people to get back out there and have some fun. It’s not something we’ve practiced, but singles is definitely the goal.”

Nick Kyrgios added, “If you have a big five-setter, with all due respect, the last thing you want to do is go out and play doubles the next day, but we’ll play it by ear and see how it goes.” Their focus on singles is understandable given their current rankings. Kyrgios, the 2022 Wimbledon runner-up, will compete with a protected singles ranking of 21, while Kokkinakis, ranked 77, is also in the main draw. Kokkinakis begins his singles campaign against Roman Safiullin, while Kyrgios will face Jacob Fearn in the first round on Monday.

The much-anticipated doubles return of the Special Ks is scheduled for Tuesday, where they’ll take on compatriots Aleksandar Vukic and James Duckworth. With injuries still looming large, will the Special Ks be able to recapture their 2022 magic at the Australian Open?