Nick Kyrgios adapting training to suit Battle of the Sexes rule changes
“My coach/best friend and I have made some adjustments at home,” Kyrgios revealed.
“We have tried to adapt to the court conditions. It will be interesting. I can’t wait to see the court and its dimensions.
“I know she is trying to make me nervous, and she is, but so am I. The fact that the court is more equal is a great initiative, but the one-serve rule benefits me. Serving is my strong point.”
Australia’s Nick Kyrgios gestures during his first round match (REUTERS)
Jack Rathborn28 December 2025 14:00
Nick Kyrgios form entering Battle of the Sexes
Nick Kyrgios has been hampered by injuries in 2025, playing just five matches, with his most recent action in Miami in March:
ATP Masters 1000 Miami: R64 v Khachanov – lost 6-7, 0-6ATP Masters 1000 Miami: R128 v McDonald – won 3-6, 6-3, 6-4ATP Masters 1000 Indian Wells: R128 v Van de Zandschulp – lost retired 6-7, 0-3)Australian Open 2025: R128 v Fearnley – lost 6-7, 3-6, 6-7ATP 250 Brisbane: R32 v Mpetshi Perricard – lost 6-7, 7-6, 6-7
Jack Rathborn28 December 2025 13:48
Emma Raducanu shares doubt over Kyrgios v Sabalenka in controversial Battle of the Sexes
“I want to see if they both go flat out,” Raducanu said. “But it will be interesting.
“I don’t think I’ll watch it all live, but I think I’ll watch some highlights or a recap of it.”
Jack Rathborn28 December 2025 13:36
Nick Kyrgios admits he is ‘nervous’ to face Aryna Sabalenka
“Both of us have played in grand stadiums all over the world,” Kyrgios said. “She is a Grand Slam champion, I have played incredible matches, but I would be lying if I said I’m not a bit nervous.
“I can’t wait to step on the court. I know the whole world will be watching us. Aryna has tried to distract me with the nightlife here, but I remain focused.
“Having the chance to face a great champion like Aryna is a challenge, it’s something different, but at the same time, sports and entertainment are the same. If you look at all the buzz this event has created… It all started with a ‘What if…?’
Jack Rathborn28 December 2025 13:24
Aryna Sabalenka ready for ‘unpredictable’ Nick Kyrgios
“I’m really excited,” said Sabalenka. “Nick is one of the most talented and unpredictable players in the game, and he brings an intensity and entertainment factor that fans love.
“I enjoy challenges that push the sport in new directions. This match is competitive, fun and on a big stage, so I’m really looking forward to it.”
(REUTERS)
Jack Rathborn28 December 2025 13:12
Five previous ‘Battle of the Sexes’ style showdowns in tennis1973: Bobby Riggs bt Margaret Court (6-2, 6-1)1973: Billie Jean King bt Bobby Riggs (6-4, 6-3, 6-3)1992: Jimmy Connors bt Martina Navratilova (7-5, 6-2)1998: Karsten Braasch bt Venus and Serena Williams – Braash won 6-1 against Serena, before beating Venus 6-2 in separate sets2003: Yannick Noah bt Justine Henin (4-6, 6-4, 7-6)
Jack Rathborn28 December 2025 13:00
Sabalenka: ‘Kyrgios in a lose-lose situation, I’m in a win-win situation’
“It’s not going to be an easy match for Nick,” Sabalenka said.
“I’m going to be there competing and showing women are strong, powerful and good entertainment.
“He’s in a lose-lose situation. I’m in a win-win situation.”
Jack Rathborn28 December 2025 12:50
Kyrgios and Sabalenka face off at Battle of the Sexes press conference
(AP)
(AFP via Getty Images)
(REUTERS)
Jack Rathborn28 December 2025 12:40
Sabalenka: ‘Battle of the Sexes’ will not damage women’s sport
“I don’t agree [that it will damage women’s sport],” Sabalenka told BBC Sport. “I am not putting myself at any risk. We’re there to have fun and bring great tennis. Whoever wins, wins.
“It’s so obvious that the man is biologically stronger than the woman, but it’s not about that.
“This event is only going to help bring women’s tennis to a higher level.”
Aryna Sabalenka reacts during a press conference (Getty Images)
Jack Rathborn28 December 2025 12:30
Billie Jean King gives verdict on ‘Battle of the Sexes’ clash
Legendary tennis star Billie Jean King says the upcoming ‘Battle of the Sexes’ clash between Nick Kyrgios and Aryna Sabalenka is ‘just not the same’ as the battle she underwent with Bobby Riggs during the 1970s.
“The only similarity is that one is a boy and one is a girl. That’s it,” the now 82-year-old told BBC Sport.
“Everything else, no. Ours was about social change; culturally, where we were in 1973. This one is not. I hope it’s a great match – I want Sabalenka, obviously, to win – but it’s just not the same.
“Mine was really political. It was rough, culturally, what was coming in with it. I knew I had to beat him for societal change. I had a lot of reasons to win.”
(REUTERS)
Jack Rathborn28 December 2025 12:20