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Thanasi Kokkinakis Details Risky Pectoral Reconstruction, Targets 2026 Australian Open Return

He describes an Achilles tendon graft procedure few surgeons were willing to perform.

Overview

  • The 29-year-old says no tennis player has previously undergone this operation and that he chose it to keep his career alive.
  • Surgeons used an Achilles tendon allograft from a deceased donor to reconnect his pectoral to his shoulder, according to reporting.
  • Roughly 11 months post-surgery, he reports progress in rehab and is concentrating on rebuilding his serve.
  • He is aiming to start with Brisbane doubles, then Adelaide, before a singles return at the 2026 Australian Open, with a possible doubles reunion with Nick Kyrgios under consideration.
  • After a year away his ranking has slid to about No. 450, and he says without the procedure he would have been limited to one match per week.