That's unlikely to happen, but a matchup between the Aussie and No. 2 seed Alexander Zverev is possible—if not probable?—in the third round. Despite an abdominal strain, Kyrgios is set to play singles in Melbourne Park.

There have still been plenty of words written about Kyrgios while he was away from the tour, especially regarding his outspoken criticism of world number one Jannik Sinner over two failed doping tests.

Nick Kyrgios has cast fresh uncertainty over his participation in the Australian Open after pulling out of an exhibition match with Novak Djokovic due to an abdominal strain.