Aryna Sabalenka has received a mixed reaction for signing up to play in the ‘Battle of the Sexes’ match against Nick Kyrgios.
Sabalenka will play Kyrgios in Dubai, with the controversial match being announced nearly two months ago.
The upcoming match has really divided opinion, with former top 30 player Steve Johnson refusing to watch Kyrgios play Sabalenka.
Kyrgios has responded strongly to criticism he has received, and now Sabalenka has had her say on the situation.
Aryna Sabalenka says what she thinks about backlash she has received
Ahead of the ‘Battle of the Sexes’ match taking place, Sabalenka and Kyrgios were both present for the pre-event press conference in Dubai.
There were a variety of questions addressed to both players concerning the event, including Sabalenka being questioned over how she feels about backlash she has received from both tennis fans and former players.
Despite being aware of the split opinions, Sabalenka does not appear to be fazed by them in the slightest.
“I’m used to being under pressure, and I’m used to both the love and hate on social media, so I don’t pay too much attention to it,” said Sabalenka. “I know there are people who support the event and others who don’t.
“I’m just focused on myself. I hope we have a good battle. I think that by putting myself in this situation, by facing a guy, I inspire the next generation to be brave and challenge themselves. That’s how I see it.”
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Aryna Sabalenka responds to Billie Jean King comparisons
There has also been criticism for Sabalenka and Kyrgios due to the name of the match, alluding to the original Battle of the Sexes which saw Billie Jean King beat Bobby Riggs.
King has actually commented on the 2025 ‘Battle of the Sexes’ match, and now Sabalenka has been asked about the comparisons.
Which two players in tennis history would you like to see in a Battle of the Sexes match?
Sabalenka admitted that the two matches are completely different, acknowledging the different pressures that King faced back in 1973.
“I think back then it was a completely different story,” said Sabalenka. They were fighting for different things.
“We’re here to take tennis to a different level, bring attention to our sport, help it grow, and have fun. Women have already shown that we deserve equality. I want to show that we’re capable of having a great fight with a man.”
Sabalenka will look to replicate King when she takes on Kyrgios in the ‘Battle of the Sexes’ match in Dubai on December 28.
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