Australian Open Loses Two Major Names as Nick Kyrgios and Zheng Qinwen Withdraw
The Australian Open has lost two of its most recognizable names, with Nick Kyrgios and Zheng Qinwen withdrawing from the tournament ahead of the main draw.
Nick Kyrgios and Qinwen Zheng deciding not to give it a go leaves the event without two of the more popular and polarizing figures in professional tennis.
Kyrgios’ withdrawal comes as little surprise given his ongoing struggle to return to full fitness after multiple injury setbacks over the past two seasons.
The former Wimbledon finalist had expressed optimism about competing in Melbourne, but his absence leaves his comeback uncertain rather than imminent.
On the women’s side, Zheng’s withdrawal carries a different kind of weight. The Olympic gold medalist and 2024 Australian Open finalist was expected to be one of the favorites to win her first Grand Slam title.
The Australian Open gets underway on January 12 in Melbourne, with main-draw play beginning at Melbourne Park as the season’s first major sets the tone for the year ahead.
Fans and tennis bettors can find the latest Australian Open news, analysis, entry lists, and tournament updates throughout the event at Crush Rush News, with coverage updated daily as the draw unfolds.
Phil Naessens has spent decades in sports as a broadcaster, author, journalist, professional tennis coach, and betting analyst. As the founder and editor of Crush & Rush News and host of the Crush & Rush Tennis Podcast, he combines firsthand coaching experience with years of sports media and publishing to deliver thoughtful tennis analysis, tournament coverage, player features, and transparent betting insights built around value, and not hype.
