Lawyers for tennis player Nick Kyrgios are attempting to have his assault charge dismissed on mental health grounds.

Kyrgios is facing a single charge of common assault.

He was summonsed by police earlier this year in connection to the alleged assault, which is believed to relate to an incident involving his former girlfriend Chiara Passari.

Kyrgios is currently competing in the Japan Open in Tokyo and did not appear in the ACT Magistrates Court this morning.

Instead, his lawyer, Michael Kukulies-Smith, sought the adjournment to allow time for a mental health assessment to be carried out.

Mr Kukulies-Smith said his client's mental health issues were well known and the court granted the request.

The matter is expected to return to court on February 3.

The court heard Kyrgios intended to appear in person when his matter returned, even though he was not required to.

"My client's preference is to attend in person," Mr Kukulies-Smith said.