Nick Kyrgios out of Australian ATP Cup group as world rating slips

Nick Kyrgios has paid the worth for a yr of inaction over COVID-19 issues after he was dominated out of Australia’s group for subsequent month’s ATP Cup after his world rating slipped to quantity 46 following a 11-month absence from the ATP Tour.
The 25-year-old final performed a aggressive match at Acapulco in February after deciding to stay at residence in Australia when the circuit resumed in Europe and North America after a hiatus.
Each nation have two singles slots that will probably be taken by their top-ranked gamers and Australia’s problem on the ATP Cup will probably be led by Alex de Minaur and John Millman who’re ranked 23 and 38, respectively.
The duo will probably be joined by doubles gamers John Peers and Luke Saville as Australia look to enhance on their semi-final end ultimately yr’s inaugural event.
The ATP Cup will probably be held from Feb. 1-5 in Melbourne forward of the Australian Open, the yr’s first Grand Slam, and the occasion will function world primary Novak Djokovic and second-ranked Rafa Nadal.
“The players are looking forward to stepping up and representing their countries again, and the field, including defending champions Serbia and finalists Spain, is strong,” event director Tom Larner mentioned.
“This is a format that shows off the passion of the players and we’re expecting some spectacular tennis action.”
The draw for the ATP Cup will happen on Jan. 20.
Kyrgios, usually branded “polarising” for his lengthy rap sheet of indiscretions, had been a galvanising drive in elevating funds and consciousness for Australian bushfire reduction efforts throughout the ATP Cup final yr.
He will now play in Melbourne 2, considered one of two ATP 250 occasions being held alongside the ATP Cup. Melbourne Park can be internet hosting two WTA 500 tournaments alongside the occasion.