Controversial Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios has declared that few male players on the current ATP tour would have the courage to face a top female opponent, as he prepares for a high-profile 'Battle of the Sexes' exhibition match against women's world number one Aryna Sabalenka.
The Dubai Showdown: Entertainment or Risk?
The much-discussed encounter is scheduled for December 28 in Dubai. While many view it as pure entertainment, echoing the famous 1973 match where Billie Jean King defeated Bobby Riggs, some critics fear it could damage the standing of women's tennis. Kyrgios, speaking at the World Tennis League in Bengaluru, conceded to feeling some pressure ahead of the event.
"I think my chances are really high. I'm very confident in my ability," Kyrgios stated this week. "It's going to be fun, but also I am a bit nervous. I like doing things that are outside the box. Honestly, not many males in my position would have done that and taken the opportunity."
Pressure and Pre-Match Comments
The dynamic of this modern clash differs from the King-Riggs era, as Kyrgios remains an active player on the men's tour, despite a 2025 season limited to just five matches due to injury. His comments have already stirred the pot; in September, the former Wimbledon finalist asserted that women cannot return men's serves and claimed he would beat Sabalenka "without having to try 100 per cent". He argued the exhibition would "increase respect" between the professional tours.
For her part, Sabalenka, a four-time Grand Slam champion, has acknowledged the biological strength differences but sees the match as a platform to elevate women's tennis. All eyes will be on Kyrgios to deliver a victory, a fact both players recognise.
An Unpredictable Spectacle
Known for his mercurial talent and headline-grabbing persona, Kyrgios admitted uncertainty about how the Dubai event will unfold. "I don't know what's going to happen, we'll see," he added. "I've been in a lot of controversies in my whole career and this is another thing I get to experience."
The exhibition promises to be a major draw, blending sporting curiosity with spectacle. For Australian viewers, the match will be broadcast live and exclusively on Stan Sport.
