Thanasi Kokkinakis went through a lot to defeat Safiullin in the first round of the 2025 Australian Open, having to overcome physical discomfort in his left leg, a result of accumulated tension and fatigue. "Playing at home is very special. It gives us Australians a great advantage, but it also creates a lot of pressure. I could hardly sleep last night, I was very anxious. It's amazing to have won today; I'm proud of my fighting spirit, but I definitely need to check my injury," he said before being asked why he had played so many exhibition tournaments.
"I've spent a lot of time off the courts due to injuries, and what I'm looking for is to make a living. Reaching semis in an ATP 250 tournament doesn't give you the money you make from playing an exhibition, that's why I play them. I also compete in the Davis Cup representing Australia, something no one highlights," he said visibly upset.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Kokkinakis: "Juego exhibiciones porque permiten que me gane la vida con el tenis"

