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Ben Shelton is of the opinion that Nick Kyrgios' victory over Aryna Sabalenka is not guaratneed when they take on each other in their 'Battle of the Sexes' showdown at the end of the year.
Kyrgios and Sabalenka will play one of the most controversial matches of the year, with the tennis world mostly worried about the ramifications it has for women's sports afterwards. Most believe that a win for Kyrgios is a near-certainty, while others think even a win for Sabalenka will be seen as a detriment to the WTA world.
Ben Shelton, however, thinks Kyrgios could be beaten because of the rules in place. For starters, the court is slightly smaller on Sabalenka's side of the court. The WTA World No. 1 will also have two serves compared to just one for Kyrgios, making Shelton come to the conclusion that it is a huge advantage.
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“I was with both of them last weekend and it’s going to be tough for [Kyrgios]. You know, he has a court that I think is, I think, 9% smaller. He only has one serve; she has two. And obviously, she’s the best player in the world right now."
"She’s very strong from the baseline. You’re taking away the weapon of his first serve. So I think it’s going to be an interesting match. It’s definitely something I would tune in to," Ben Shelton said in a conversation with Front Office Sports.
The 'Battle of the Sexes' will take place in Dubai on December 28.
Unlike Ben Shelton, Ilana Kloss had criticism for Kyrios vs Sabalenka's 'Battle of the Sexes' fight
Speaking to Front Office Sports, Ilana Kloss had a different opinion to Ben Shelton's 'interesting' take on the Nick Kyrgios vs Aryna Sabalenka battle. Kloss felt that it was not a 'serious' match regardless of what the duo claimed, and felt it was just about them getting a big paycheck at the end of the day.
“I don’t even think you can put it in the context of Billie Jean playing Bobby Riggs. … I don’t think anyone’s going to take it seriously. Other than them getting a check, which is great, I’m sure it’s a big check,” Kloss said.
Kyrgios remained out of action for the entirety of 2025, and is recovering from a wrist injury. However, he has played some exhibition tournaments this month.
