Wimbledon 2022 finalist Nick Kyrgios shared his thoughts on preparing for the highly anticipated `Battle of the Sexes` exhibition match against Aryna Sabalenka, which is scheduled to take place in Dubai.
The exhibition match will feature a set of unique rules designed to balance the playing field between the male and female athletes. Crucially, both players will receive only one serve, and Sabalenka`s side of the court will be reduced by 9% in both length and width.
During a joint press conference, Kyrgios detailed his adaptation strategy.
“My coach and my best friend at home have been making minor adjustments. We are trying to adapt to the unique court dimensions. It`s going to be fascinating; I am really eager to see the court and its layout.”
The Australian star admitted that the psychological warfare has already begun.
“I know she is trying to get under my skin—and she succeeds, although I manage to do the same to her. The concept of fair court dimensions is excellent, but giving me only one serve is definitely an advantage. The serve is my biggest weapon,” Kyrgios remarked.
Furthermore, Kyrgios emphasized the significance of the event for promoting unity between men`s and women`s tennis.
“In 10 or 15 years, I will be proud of how this event unfolded. In my opinion, this is a genuine symbol of unity in the sport,” he stated. “We need more events like this. Currently, there is too much conflict and not enough collaboration. Regardless of the outcome, this demonstrates that together, we can achieve magnificent things in the sport.”
Jasper Carew