Nick Kyrgios has hit back at one of the players who "messaged him day in and day out" ahead of Sunday's much-talked-about ‘Battle of the Sexes’ clash against Aryna Sabalenka.
The former Wimbledon finalist, who is currently ranked 671 in the world, recorded a 6-3, 6-3 win over women's No. 1 and four-time grand slam champion Sabalenka on Sunday night.
Prior to the exhibition event in Dubai, Kyrgios hadn't played competitively since March due to injury. In fact, the Australian has only featured in six ATP matches since the beginning of the 2023 campaign.
But he was confident about his chances. Speaking on the First&Red podcast with fellow player Alexander Bublik, Kyrgios predicted he would win the first set 6-2. "I don't want her to win," he added. "That's for sure."
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Bublik, who is currently ranked No. 11 in the world, said in the podcast that he would "not choose" Kyrgios to represent the men’s side.
After securing the victory on Sunday, the Australian responded to Bublik's comment, as well as the 28-year-old's pre-match antics, during his post-match press conference – and he didn't hold back.
“It’s an interesting comment from someone who has moulded their entire game about me," said Kyrgios, as per The Tennis Gazette.
“I mean, we are all thinking it. Someone had to say it. Bublik is a great friend of mine. And let me start by saying to see him and how well he has done the last year has been incredible to see.
“I have always known that he had the ability to do these amazing things and achieve these amazing things.
“But look, Bublik, and let me tell you there have been some players messaging me day in and day out saying that you are representing us. It was serious pressure."
Kyrgios added: “Bublik was not the only one. I’m not going to mention names because they have been harassing me for days and weeks! But it was tough. It was not easy. Bublik is next! You go next!”
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Nick Kyrgios and Aryna Sabalenka react to 'Battle of the Sexes' match
"I felt great. I think I put up a great fight. He was struggling, he got really tired," Sabalenka reflected, before admitting interest in a rematch.
"I think it was a great level, I made a lot of great shots, moved a lot to the net, drop shots. Really enjoyed the show. Next time when I play him, I already know the tactics, his strengths and weaknesses, and it will be a better match for sure.
"I love to challenge myself and I'd love to play again."
Kyrgios was also on the same page in being keen for a second match, showering Sabalenka with praise before the post-match presentation.
"Honestly it was a really tough match, she is a hell of a player and such a great champion," he said. "I didn't really know what to expect. Whatever role I was to play, it was just another great opportunity to go out here."
"Honestly, I would love to play her again and showcase her talent and what I have left in the tank," added Kyrgios.
Topics: Nick Kyrgios, Tennis
Jack Kenmare