Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios has arrived at ACT Magistrates Court to answer one charge of common assault against his ex-girlfriend Chiara Passari.

Kyrgios arrived on crutches after recent knee surgery and was flanked by family including his mother Norlaila, brother Christos and his current partner Costeen Hatzi.

Australian Capital Territory Policing previously said the charge was in relation to an incident in January 2021, which was reported to ACT police in December last year.

Kyrgios arrives at ACT Magistrates Court. He is facing one charge of common assault against his ex girlfriend Chiara Passari

Kyrgios arrived with his legal representation, partner Costeen Hatzi, mother Norlaila Kyrgios and brother Christos

Canberra solicitor Michael Kukulies-Smith is representing Kyrgios.

He was initially scheduled to appear in 2022 but was successful in seeking an adjournment to play in the US Open.

A hearing was held on August 23 but Kyrgios was not required to attend as long as his legal representation appeared.

Nick Kyrgios with Chiara Passari in the Bahamas in 2021 when they were in a relationship together

In October his lawyers appeared in the ACT Magistrates court and asked for an adjournment so forensic mental health reports could be prepared as they sought to have the matter dismissed on mental health grounds. 

Magistrates have the power to dismiss a charge if they believe the accused is mentally impaired and that treating the matter in that manner would benefit both the offender and the community.

Magistrate Glenn Theakston adjourned the case until today, when a decision is likely to be made on whether the charge will be dismissed.

Kyrgios missed the recent Australian Open through injury and is hoping to return to court for the Indian Wells Masters in California in March.

Just 30 minutes before his scheduled appearance, Kyrgios was relaxed enough to post a meme on Twitter comparing NBA players Jaren Jackson Jr and Anthony Davis.

Kyrgios, a self-confessed NBA fan, posted the meme with the caption ‘LOL’. 

More to come… 

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