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Kyrgios has long been a polarising figure in the sport, given his chequered history on and off the court.<\/p>\n
The Australian has received multiple sanctions over the course of his career for inappropriate behaviour and fiery outbursts.<\/p>\n
There have also been allegations of domestic violence and accusations of sexist comments.<\/p>\n
Kyrgios pleaded guilty to assaulting an ex-girlfriend in 2023, then had to distance himself from controversial influencer Andrew Tate in 2024.<\/p>\n
His recent comments about playing Sabalenka – witheringly questioning on one podcast if he would even have to “try 100%” to win – has led to concerns the event will fuel misogyny. <\/p>\n
In a press release announcing the event, Kyrgios’ tone was markedly differently.<\/p>\n
“When the world number one challenges you, you answer the call. I’ve got massive respect for Aryna; she’s a powerhouse and a true champion,” he said.<\/p>\n
Sabalenka does not seem to think the match will have any negative impact on the perception of women’s sports, simply saying at the US Open she thinks it is a “cool idea”.<\/p>\n
Catherine Whitaker, co-host of the Tennis Podcast, believes the opposite. <\/p>\n
“I see absolutely nothing to be gained for women’s tennis – I see only bleakness,” she told BBC Sport.<\/p>\n
“It’s a crass commercial venture and a vehicle for one of the most outspoken misogynists in tennis who just wants attention.<\/p>\n
“If Sabalenka wins, she beats a man who is unfit and has been a total irrelevance for a number of years. What does she win? Nothing. Unless she wins 6-0 6-0, people will only find ammunition to fire at women’s tennis.<\/p>\n
“If Kyrgios wins, he and others of the same mind will claim it legitimises everything he’s already spewing out. It’s disgusting to be giving him a platform.<\/p>\n
“I find it utterly ludicrous this is going to be happening in 2025.”<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
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