Kokkinakis Withdraws from Adelaide International After Shoulder Setback

Kokkinakis, 29, pulled out of his second‑round match at the ATP 250 event just hours before it was due to start, citing ongoing pain in his right shoulder that flared up during his opening‑round victory over Sebastian Korda. The injury, which has troubled him since last year’s Australian Open and through radical surgery, proved too significant to push through in Adelaide. His withdrawal means opponent Valentin Vacherot advances by walkover, while Kokkinakis’ hopes of competing in the Grand Slam at Melbourne Park now hang in the balance as he continues his recovery.

Pain and Promise in Kokkinakis’ Return

Thanasi Kokkinakis had looked determined to make a memorable return to the court at the Adelaide International after nearly a year away following major shoulder and pectoral surgery. In his first‑round match, he battled past American Sebastian Korda in a three‑set thriller, digging deep to overcome both the scoreline and the discomfort in his right shoulder. He received on‑court treatment during the match and acknowledged the pain afterward, but the emotional victory was a celebration for the home crowd.

However, the physical toll was clear. Kokkinakis admitted that had it not been his hometown tournament, he might not have taken to the court at all given the uncertainty around his shoulder’s readiness. Despite his bravery on court and visible grit through long rallies, the discomfort intensified — leading to the difficult decision to step away from his second‑round clash.

Heartbreak on Home Soil

With his withdrawal confirmed just hours before his scheduled match, Kokkinakis expressed deep disappointment, noting that Adelaide holds special significance for him. He wrote on social media that he was heartbroken to miss out on playing further in the tournament he cherishes most and thanked fans for their support. The decision was not made lightly but reflects a priority on long‑term health over short‑term glory.

Monaco’s Valentin Vacherot, who was due to face Kokkinakis, now advances to the quarterfinals by walkover. While Kokkinakis will retain his protected ranking — which guarantees him a spot in the Australian Open singles draw — his ability to compete in the season’s first Grand Slam remains uncertain as he continues treatment and rehabilitation.

Injury History and Future Uncertainty

The shoulder issue that forced Kokkinakis’ withdrawal has been a long‑standing concern. It was aggravated during a gruelling five‑set match at the 2025 Australian Open — his last competitive singles appearance before Adelaide — and contributed to an extended absence while he underwent major surgery. The recovery process has been arduous and included painful moments even as he worked back toward match fitness.

Despite this setback, Kokkinakis remains hopeful about his long‑term future in tennis. He has a protected ranking for the Australian Open and is also planning to compete in doubles alongside close friend Nick Kyrgios, who himself has stepped back from singles due to injury. Whether he can translate doubles participation into singles success at Melbourne Park will depend on how his shoulder responds in the coming days.

Looking Ahead to the Australian Open

With the Australian Open set to begin imminently, Kokkinakis’ withdrawal from Adelaide serves as a stark reminder of the challenges athletes face when battling through injuries. His perseverance and the emotional connection with fans have resonated widely, but the journey back to peak form may require patience. As the first Grand Slam of the year approaches, supporters will be watching closely to see if the passionate Australian can take to the Melbourne courts and continue his comeback on the sport’s biggest stage.