Kyrgios backs down against Sabalenka: "She can beat me"

Australian showman Nick Kyrgios will face Aryna Sabalenka on December 28th in Dubai for an already highly anticipated exhibition. Confident at first, he now seems aware of the colossal challenge awaiting him against the power of the Belarusian.

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Clément Gehl

le 10/12/2025 à 11h17

1 min to read

Kyrgios Nick Sabalenka Aryna

Nick Kyrgios and Aryna Sabalenka will face off on December 28th in Dubai in an exhibition called "The Battle of the Sexes." While the Australian was initially very confident about this match, it seems he is starting to moderate his statements.

In an interview with Piers Morgan, Kyrgios was full of praise for his future opponent: "I know she is a very dangerous player for many Top 100 players, and I will have to give my all to win. I've been through tough times lately, and I am convinced that Aryna is capable of beating me.

"She has a first serve better than some players"

It will be a great show, and I know it will generate much more interest than many regular-season ATP tour matches. It is an honor for me to share the court with her, and I know I will be very nervous because facing Sabalenka is a huge challenge, but also a great source of motivation.

Aryna has a first serve better than that of some players on the tour, so it's going to be tough for me."