'We're going to take the court': Thanasi Kokkinakis reveals doubles pact with Nick Kyrgios amid lingering injury cloud
Thanasi Kokkinakis insists a lingering injury cloud of he and doubles partner Nick Kyrgios will not impact their pursuit of a second Australian Open title.
The home favourites are set to light up the courts at Melbourne Park as they reprise their 2022 Australian Open title-winning doubles partnership.
The build-up to the home slam has not been smooth sailing for either player with both forced to withdraw for warm-up events in bid to be fit to take the courts in Melbourne.
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Kokkinakis was forced to withdraw from the Brisbane and Adelaide Internationals due to a recurring shoulder injury, while Kyrgios continues to manage a wrist and abdominal strain.
The recovery period for both injuries has placed a cloud of uncertainty over the duo's return to the doubles arena, but Kokkinakis has no fears the 'Special K's' will be back.
"I think both of us made a pact on that, unless we are seriously hurt, we're going to try to come out there - even if we're not feeling great," he said.
"That's one thing, we can rely on each other and play.
"We don't know what we're going to produce out there, but for sure, we are going to take the court."
Thanasi Kokkinakis (L) and Nick Kyrgios (R) during their successful 2022 doubles campaign. Getty
Kokkinakis refused to provide details on the extent of Kyrgios' injuries, but revealed the pair have remained in regular contact in recent days.
"We've exchanged a few messages... (but) that will stay with me and Nick," he smiled.
Kokkinakis admitted his own personal setbacks have been frustrating in recent seasons, having also had issues with a right pectoral injury.
But the opportunity to compete at a home grand slam is one he is not willing to forgo so easy.
"I've felt better, to be honest. I'm pretty frustrated," Kokkinakis said.
"Obviously, pulling out last week was tough. I'm not sure how I'm going to go come Monday when I start, we'll see.
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Thanasi Kokkinakis of Australia Getty
"I've got a few things I need to work through. I'll probably just leave it at that. I don't know what else to say. I don't know how I'm going to feel on Monday.
"It's the worst feeling because you feel like you do everything you can to kind of prepare and get as ready as you can be for [what is] my most important event.
"Then, when something doesn't go quite right or it lets you down, it's tough.
"The thing I work hardest on the most (is to) recover and make sure I get into the best shape I can, but when that fails you time and time again, that's the one that is pretty head-scratching and tough.
"But it is what it is at the end of the day. No one cares if you roll out there.
"You have got tot go out and play and see what you can do."
