Todd Woodbridge Criticizes Thanasi Kokkinakis' Scheduling Decisions Amid Injury Concerns

Todd Woodbridge has expressed concerns about Thanasi Kokkinakis' recent tennis schedule, particularly in light of his injury troubles just before the Australian Open. Kokkinakis had to withdraw from the Adelaide International's quarter-finals due to a shoulder issue. Although the injury isn't deemed too serious, Woodbridge questioned Kokkinakis' decision to participate in overseas tournaments late in the year, suggesting he should have prioritized his fitness for the Australian Open.

Woodbridge commented on Channel 9, "He needs to carefully consider how to maximize his tennis career." He pointed out that Kokkinakis opted to play in Challenger events and exhibitions for financial gain, but indicated that such a schedule may have negatively impacted his start to the year.

Kokkinakis' career has been plagued by injuries, and Woodbridge suggested that resting at the end of 2024, as many top players did, might have been a wiser choice. He believes a more strategic approach to his tournament schedule could have allowed Kokkinakis to enter the Australian Open in optimal physical condition. Despite these concerns, Woodbridge remains hopeful that Kokkinakis has had enough time to recover for his upcoming match against Roman Safiullin.