Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Thanasi Kokkinakis Sets 2026 Australian Return After Unprecedented Pectoral Reconstruction

Years of playing through a pectoral injury pushed the 29-year-old to take a high-risk option to extend his career.

Overview

  • Kokkinakis says he underwent a risky, first-of-its-kind procedure in tennis, noting that several surgeons declined to perform it.
  • Reports state surgeons used an Achilles tendon graft from a deceased donor to reconnect his pectoral to his shoulder.
  • He plans a staged comeback that begins with Brisbane doubles, continues in Adelaide, and targets Australian Open singles.
  • A doubles reunion with Nick Kyrgios at Melbourne Park is under consideration if both are healthy.
  • Rebuilding the serve remains the toughest part of rehab, he does not expect peak form until mid-2026, and his ranking has fallen to roughly No. 450 after not playing since a five-set loss to Jack Draper at the 2025 Australian Open.