Kyrgios' return ends in first-round loss in Brisbane

Nick Kyrgios' first ATP Tour match since March ended in a straight-set defeat by Aleksandar Kovacevic in the opening round of the Brisbane International.

The 30-year-old Australian, who had played only six ATP singles matches in the past three seasons and was given a wildcard for the event, was beaten 6-3 6-4 in just 65 minutes by American Kovacevic.

The defeat follows Kyrgios' victory in the 'Battle of the Sexes' exhibition match against women's world number one Aryna Sabalenka last month.

As he is now ranked 670th, Kyrgios is aiming to build his fitness so he can gain a wildcard for the Australian Open, which begins on 18 January in Melbourne, after suffering a string of serious injuries in recent years.

Kyrgios appeared to clutch his elbow in discomfort during the match with world number 58 Kovacevic, and managed to win a point with one of his trademark underarm serves in the second set.

The loss will not help Kyrgios' hopes of playing in his first Grand Slam since a first-round defeat by Britain's Jacob Fearnley at his home tournment in 2025.

He is next in action on Wednesday in the men's doubles with Australian-Greek partner Thanasi Kokkinakis, before taking part in the Kooyong Classic warm-up exhibition event in ‍Melbourne next week.

Kovacevic, 27, meanwhile, will face either Britain's Cameron Norrie or Frenchman Ugo Humbert in the second round.