Tennis

Nick Kyrgios is a confirmed withdrawal from the Kooyong Classic 2027 — the event he would likely have used as preparation for the Australian Open.

The 31-year-old was announced as a participant at Kooyong on August 4, but his recent provisional suspension after testing positive for cocaine has thrown his tennis future in doubt.

Kyrgios’ length of suspension will be determined by whether the International Tennis Integrity Agency finds whether the substance was then in or out of competition.

Kooyong Classic organisers released a statement confirming Kyrgios’ withdrawal, while revealing men’s stars Arthur Fils and Learner Tien would be joining Paula Badosa as competing in the event, which is scheduled January 12-14 at the Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club.

MORE: The curious case of Nick Kyrgios: Unfulfilled promise and a sad crash landing

World no.11 Fils won his first Masters 1000 title earlier today, defeating Frances Tiafoe in 6-2 1-6 6-0 in Cincinnati.

Twelth-ranked Tien was a Australian Open quarter-finalist earlier this year and was a semi-finalist at the Montreal Masters earlier this month.

“Arthur and Learner are two of the most exciting young players in world tennis, and what they have already achieved this season speaks for itself,” tournament director Peter Johnston said.

“Arthur is one of the hottest players on tour and has enjoyed an impressive 2026 season, and we loved having Learner at Kooyong earlier this year, seeing first-hand the quality of tennis he brings.”

MORE: Nick Kyrgios suspended after failed drug test: ‘Harder than I ever imagined’

“To welcome Learner back alongside Arthur gives us two fantastic additions to the 2027 men’s field.”

“Kooyong has always been a place where fans can see the world’s best players up close just before the Australian Open, and we’re looking forward to announcing more players in the months ahead.”

Tennis

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