Aryna Sabalenka v Nick Kyrgios: Why ‘Battle of the Sexes’ exhibition is polarising opinion

Kyrgios has long been a polarizing figure in the sport, given his checkered history on and off the field.

The Australian has faced numerous sanctions for inappropriate behavior and angry outbursts throughout his career.

There are also allegations of domestic violence and accusations of sexist comments.

Kyrgios pleaded guilty to assaulting his ex-girlfriend in 2023, then had to step away from controversial figure Andrew Tate in 2024.

Her recent comments about playing Sabalenka – harshly questioning in a podcast whether she would have to “try 100%” to win – led to concerns that the event would fuel misogyny.

In the press release announcing the event, Kyrgios’ tone was quite different.

“When the world number one challenges you, you answer the call. I have huge respect for Aryna; she is a powerhouse and a true champion,” he said.

Sabalenka doesn’t think the match will have any negative impact on the perception of women’s sports, just saying she thinks it’s a “great idea” at the US Open.

Catherine Whitaker, co-host of the Tennis Podcast, thinks the opposite.

“I see women’s tennis as having absolutely nothing to win; I just see despair,” she told BBC Sport.

“This is a tawdry commercial venture and a vehicle for one of the most outspoken misogynists in tennis who is just looking for attention.

“If Sabalenka wins, she will be beating a man who is out of form and has been completely irrelevant for a few years. What does she win? Nothing. Unless she wins 6-0 6-0 people will only have ammunition to fire on women’s tennis.

“If Kyrgios wins, he and others like him will argue that it legitimizes everything he’s already said. Giving him a platform is disgusting.

“I find it utterly ridiculous that this could happen in 2025.”