Aryna Sabalenka hits back at ‘damaging’ claims | Sports News

Aryna Sabalenka is gearing up to face off in opposition to Nick Kyrgios in a extremely anticipated ‘Battle of the Sexes’ match, set to be aired stay on the BBC later this month.

This marks the fourth time a man vs girl match has been dubbed as a ‘Battle of the Sexes,’ with probably the most notable occasion being Billie Jean King’s victory over Bobby Riggs in straight units back in September 1973. However, the upcoming match between the world No. 1 and the Australian participant has stirred up some controversy.

Critics have questioned its goal and potential adverse impression on girls’s tennis. In response, four-time Grand Slam champion Sabalenka has defended the occasion, arguing that it places Kyrgios in a “lose-lose” scenario.

Sabalenka, 27, informed the BBC: “I don’t agree. 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.

“It’s not going to be an straightforward match for Nick. I’m going to be there competing and exhibiting girls are sturdy, highly effective and good leisure. He’s in a lose-lose scenario. I’m in a win-win scenario.”

The fourth edition of the ‘Battle of the Sexes’ will take place at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai. The match will be broadcast on BBC One on December 28, starting from 3:45pm GMT. Clare Balding will host the event, while Andrew Cotter will provide commentary.

Sabalenka and Kyrgios have been taking part in exhibition matches across the United States alongside Naomi Osaka. The trio are all represented by the Evolve management agency, which Osaka co-founded with her longtime agent, Stuart Duguid.

Duguid is believed to be the mastermind behind this modern ‘Battle of the Sexes’ concept, noting that while Sabalenka and Kyrgios will “do advantageous” financially from the match, money is “not what’s driving this.”

The ‘Battle of the Sexes’ will function particular guidelines, together with limiting gamers to only one serve. Additionally, the courtroom on Sabalenka’s aspect can be 9 per cent smaller in measurement.

For Kyrgios, these exhibition matches, together with his showdown with Sabalenka, function preparation for his comeback to aggressive tennis. The former world quantity 13 has struggled with knee and wrist issues over the previous three years.

He made his return in Brisbane this January however managed solely 5 matches throughout 4 tournaments earlier than stepping away again. Kyrgios final competed at the Miami Open in March, the place he defeated Mackenzie McDonald earlier than falling to Karen Khachanov. He at present sits at quantity 672 on this planet rankings.