Nick Kyrgios has the battle of the sexes against Aryna Sabalenka clearly decided for themselves. However, the Australian didn’t seem to be really fit.
by Nikolaus Fink
last edited: December 29, 2025, 5:48 p.m
© Getty Images
The “Battle of the Sexes” between Nick Kyrgios and Aryna Sabalenka didn’t provide much insight. However, the viewers in Dubai and in front of the television sets were able to gain one insight. Namely that Kyrgios – despite his clear success over the world number one – is still a long way from being 100 percent fit.
Already in the middle of the first set, the Australian, who had hardly ever been on the match court in recent years, began to show signs of wear and tear. As the show match progressed, Kyrgios visibly struggled with his fitness and thus gave anything but a letter of recommendation for an Australian Open wildcard.
Three wild cards are still up for grabs
As a reminder: Kyrgios has not yet received an invitation to the first Grand Slam event of the year from the organizers led by tournament director Craig Tiley. As the current number 671 in the world, Kyrgios is dependent on a wildcard, otherwise the crowd favorite would miss the tournament in Melbourne.
Kyrgios’ popularity seems to be the only argument for a wild card these days. Apparently that was also thought in Brisbane, where the 2022 Wimbledon finalist will open his season from January 4th. At the Australian Open, the organizers can still award three wildcards on the men’s side.
Rusedski wouldn’t give Kyrgios a wildcard
If Greg Rusedski had his way, Kyrgios would come away empty-handed. “He doesn’t look like he’s in the right shape to play. And you have to think about all the young Australian players who you have to give the chance to play,” said the former world number four in his podcast “Off-Court”.
Although Kyrgios attracts fans to the stadiums, his fitness is currently not sufficient. Especially not for the Australian Open, where it is known that the best-of-five format is played. Last season, Kyrgios appeared in Melbourne half fit at best and was defeated by Jacob Fearnley at the start.
Don’t miss any news!
Enable notifications:
Kyrgios Nick
Keep reading
