After losing in the Brisbane International winning Nick Kyrgios is doubtful for the Australian Open

During Tuesday afternoon's straight-sets loss to American journeyman Aleksandar Kovacevic 6-3 6-4, the 30-year-old was often spotted groaning and gripping at his elbow.

Kyrgios was grinning as he matched the world no. 60 early in the match, but when the American won, the atmosphere soured and the Australian appeared to be in pain in his right elbow.

While Kyrgios had no opportunities on his opponent's service and only hit four wins to the American's 14, Kovacevic won the first set after converting the lone break point he created.

The second set was similarly very level but Kovacevic easily won the match after Kyrgios handed up a break in the ninth game.

In order to compete in the major Kyrgios is depending on obtaining a wildcard from Tennis Australia. It is evident that all parties are awaiting word on whether he will be well enough to compete at Melbourne Park.

The Wimbledon champion acknowledged that unless he could play at a high level he would not accept a wildcard to the Australian Open.

Before the Brisbane International he stated "[John] Milliman gave his wildcard up for me when he was injured at the French Open."

"He wasn't feeling well, and that's when my career really took off. Following that, I changed as a player. I gained a lot of knowledge.

"People are spending a lot of money to attend the Australian Open if I am feeling well and can make it through this week and perform there. I would honestly rather to give it to someone who got the wildcard and is in prime position to launch a remarkable career if I can't offer them the Kyrgios experience."

The Sporting News assessment of Kyrgios' prospects for the Australian Open

The fact that Kovacevic a 27-year-old journeyman, defeated Kyrgios very handily was not encouraging.

With an appearance planned at the Kooyong Classic, Kyrgios still has time to prepare for the Australian Open if it was simply rust and lack of match fitness.

But it's doubtful that we will ever see Kyrgios at his peak again having only participated in six professional games since suffering wrist and knee injuries in 2022.

The best Kyrgios that we will probably see again is either in the commentary box or on the doubles court alongside Thanasi Kokkinakis.