Nick Kyrgios Feeling The Heat Ahead Of 'Battle Of The Sexes' Match

Nick Kyrgios has expressed confidence in his upcoming match against Aryna Sabalenka in the “Battle of the Sexes” exhibition, scheduled for December 28 in Dubai, but he also admits to feeling some pressure.

Earlier this week, top-ranked Sabalenka and 2022 Wimbledon finalist Kyrgios confirmed the date and venue for the event. Speaking to Australian Associated Press, Kyrgios said, “I was in Hong Kong recently and a lot of the male players were like, ‘Look, you’re representing all of us.’ So here I am in the firing line again. I’m not a stranger to taking the heat from the media, but I’m excited whatever the result may be. I’m going to go out there and show the world that as good as she is, she’s got some weaknesses.”

The exhibition is named after the famous 1973 match between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs, which King won in straight sets. Due to wrist and knee injuries, Kyrgios has played only six tour-level matches in the last three years. He noted that he will be aiming at a smaller side of the court, almost 10% smaller than what Sabalenka will be targeting, giving him less room to hit winners.

Both players are set to participate in an exhibition in New York on December 8, but not against each other. Sabalenka will play Naomi Osaka while Kyrgios will face Tommy Paul.

Kyrgios stated he would give Sabalenka full respect, acknowledging her potential to be one of the greatest women’s players of all time and predicting she would win multiple more Grand Slams. He added, “She’s honestly been talking a little bit more about this match than I have, but I’m ready to take the challenge. It’s a lot of pressure for me too.”

Despite expecting most of the crowd to support Sabalenka, Kyrgios referred to his career achievements, including victories over Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, and Andy Murray. He is one of only 16 players to have beaten the so-called Big Four.

Kyrgios remains confident despite his current ranking of No. 652, caused by his long absence from the sport. “I’m going to be ready,” he said. “I feel good about it.”