Aryna Sabalenka v Nick Kyrgios: Battle of the Sexes incident ‘won’t harm’ women’s sport

Critics have questioned Kyrgios’s suitability for the leading role after he admitted assaulting his ex-girlfriend in 2021 and made a series of comments deemed misogynistic.

Last year, Kyrgios shared a post from controversial influencer Andrew Tate and later distanced himself from the self-professed misogynist.

Asked if he understood the criticism of his previous actions, Kyrgios told BBC Sport: “Of course. But that’s life. When you’re young you make comments and you change.”

The former world number 13 said he was now a “different person”, adding: “I’m not going to sit here and say I’m a fantastic role model, but I’ve grown and I’m definitely more mature now.”

Kyrgios said he had not “thought” about the possibility of becoming a spokesperson for misogynists prepared to criticize women’s sport if he beat Sabalenka.

“That’s the only thing I’m good at – hitting the ball over the net and giving people a show,” he said.

“So, there’s nothing I can do except wish Alina and I play our best tennis, and ultimately, no matter who wins, our handshake will solidify the alliance between men and women in the world of tennis.”

Kyrgios, who has openly admitted to drinking and drug abuse in the past, said he was not worried about losing face if he was beaten by Sabalenka.

“I never worry. I know how I deal with things in life,” he said.

“It’s all a bonus. I’ve lost tennis matches before, so it’s not a big deal.”

Kyrgios said he views this tournament, along with recent exhibition matches in Atlanta and New York with Sabalenka, Naomi Osaka, Ben Shelton and Tommy Paul, as important preparation for a fuller return to the ATP Tour in 2026.

A knee injury means he has not played on tour since the Miami Open in March, but he said there were “real positive signs” for his fitness.