Sabalenka says Dubai exhibition with Kyrgios is a win-win, says she’ll give her all
As-salāmu ʿalaykum - Aryna Sabalenka says her exhibition match against Nick Kyrgios in Dubai will be a win-win for her, despite mixed reactions to the matchup.
The world No.1 in women’s tennis will face Kyrgios on December 28 at Coca-Cola Arena in a match promoted as a modern “Battle of the Sexes,” recalling the famous 1973 King–Riggs meeting. Sabalenka told reporters she wants to play her best, make Kyrgios uncomfortable and treat the match seriously.
She said that for Kyrgios there’s pressure either way - if he wins people shrug and if he loses people criticise him - while for her it’s win-win: a victory would be meaningful, and a narrow loss would still be an honourable performance. She hopes not to be routed and wants a close, competitive match that tests both players.
Sabalenka noted the historical context of the original King–Riggs match, which pushed the cause of women’s equality in sport. This newer event is billed as a celebration of top-level performance and sportsmanship, though some have questioned whether staging man-vs-woman exhibitions risks sending the wrong message about women’s tennis.
After a recent win in Riyadh, Sabalenka said she understands the responsibility she’s taken on and will play seriously to help improve conditions for women’s tennis. She has practised with several top male players this season - including Andrey Rublev, Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic - and hopes Djokovic might sit in her box to add extra pressure on Kyrgios.
Kyrgios reached a career-high of No.13 and was a Wimbledon finalist in 2022 but has battled injuries and only played a handful of matches since wrist surgery last year. Sabalenka feels the matchup gives her a good chance because Kyrgios hasn’t been as active on tour recently, and she’s confident she can match him on the day.
Regardless of the outcome, Sabalenka says her aim is to perform at her best, entertain the crowd, and contribute positively to the profile and fairness of women’s tennis.
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