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World number one Aryna Sabalenka has expressed enthusiasm for a proposed ‘Battle of the Sexes’-style exhibition match against Nick Kyrgios, saying she’ll “try my best to kick his ass” if the event goes ahead.
Discussions for the exhibition are underway, though a date and venue have yet to be confirmed. Both Sabalenka, 27, and Kyrgios, 30, share the same agent, Stuart Duguid of the Evolve agency, which also represents Naomi Osaka.
“I think it’s a cool idea and will be spectacular to watch. It’s going to be fun, especially against someone like Nick,” Sabalenka said after reaching the US Open final at Flushing Meadows, New York. “Like he said in another interview, I genuinely think that I’m going to win.”
Sabalenka, defending her US Open title, is aiming for the fourth Grand Slam singles trophy of her career, having also won the Australian Open in 2023 and 2024. Kyrgios, who reached a career-high 13th in 2016, has played only five matches this year after returning from an 18-month wrist injury.
Sabalenka added that the match would ideally take place at a venue with a large audience to put pressure on Kyrgios. The idea recalls previous ‘Battle of the Sexes’ matches, including Billie Jean King’s iconic 1973 victory over Bobby Riggs.
