“Have to enjoy whatever is left…”: Nick Kyrgios drops retirement hint days after tearful exit from Indian Wells

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Nick Kyrgios has hinted that retirement might be on the horizon after sharing an emotional TikTok post, just days after a tearful exit from Indian Wells. The Australian retired mid-match against Botic van de Zandschulp, a lucky loser who later stunned Novak Djokovic. Earlier in the week, Kyrgios had cut a practice session short, clutching his surgically repaired right wrist, a troubling sign that resurfaced during the match.

Against Van de Zandschulp, Kyrgios showed grit, rallying from 4-1 down in the first set to force a tie-break and even earning a set point. But after falling a break behind in the second set, he called for the trainer and ultimately walked off the court in tears, unable to continue. Post-match, he revealed he hadn’t even expected to play at Indian Wells, though he’d convinced himself he’d be fine—only to be proven wrong.

Kyrgios also shared that his doctors have warned him he may never return to professional tennis. Despite this, he seems determined to push on while he still can, though his participation in upcoming events like Miami remains uncertain, likely a day-to-day decision. For a tennis player, that’s far from ideal.

In a candid TikTok note the following day, Kyrgios reflected on his mindset, suggesting he’s now focused on savoring what’s left of his career—a hint that retirement could be looming. “Gotta let go of what was. You are a new person, new player now,” he wrote. “It ain’t easy, but you have to enjoy whatever is left in this tennis journey. I’m a competitor, I always think I’m capable and I always want to play my best. But that also stems frustration and anger to myself—I have to be kinder—it is a blessing to still be able to play this sport that has given me so much.”