Novak Djokovic and Nick Kyrgios were narrowly defeated in the second round of the Brisbane International men’s doubles by top seeds Nikola Mektic and Kiwi Michael Venus in a dramatic 6-2, 3-6, 10-8 clash.
Despite Kyrgios battling “throbbing” pain following a singles loss in his return after 18 months out due to injury, the pair fought valiantly, taking the match to a deciding tie-break.
A late double fault by Djokovic at 8-6 shifted the momentum, allowing Mektic and Venus to claim victory. Kyrgios’s fitness remains a concern ahead of the Australian Open, while Djokovic advances to the singles quarter-finals to face Gael Monfils as he pursues his 100th ATP title.
