Nick Kyrgios is a polarizing personality. In an era dominated by the likes of Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, the Australian built his own name and many find him as popular as the rest of the Big 3, but for controversial reasons.
From taunting opponents with underarm serves to sending a bazooka-like forehand return, there’s a lot to like and dislike about the Australian at the same time.
Thanks for the submission!
On Friday’s episode of Nothing Major Show, the panel was discussing their favorite tennis feuds of all time. Former ATP star Sam Querrey called Kyrgios vs the world as his favorite feud. He said (1:47):
“I feel like he just kind of looks for fights. He thinks he’s all, he kind of plays the victim card all the time for no reason, but that’s his stick. That’s why he’s so popular. If you ask someone around the world, an average sports fan, ‘Who do you want to watch play tennis?’ they’ll say Sinner, Alcaraz, Novak, Federer, Nadal… Kyrgios makes that list because Nick stirs up controversy and has all these, not crazy takes, but outbursts, and that’s what makes him popular. So for me, it’s Kyrgios versus the world.”
Nick Kyrgios stirs up controversy again with Battle of Sexes exhibition vs Aryna Sabalenka
Even though Nick Kyrgios has largely remained inactive in 2025, he has found ways to keep the spotlight on himself.
The latest buzz regarding him is the upcoming Battle of Sexes showdown, which will pit the Australian against WTA’s World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka. The exhibition match is set to take place at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai on December 28.
In order to make the match competitive, the rules are tilted in favor of Sabalenka. Kyrgios will only get one serve, and he will have to put the ball in the smaller court of Sabalenka.
The match is a one-of-a-kind showdown and follows the original 1973 “Battle of the Sexes” between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs.
Both Kyrgios and Sabalenka have shown their readiness for this encounter. Meanwhile, on the outside, the critics argue whether this “man vs woman” tennis match sends the right message across. Some say the showdown is just meant for clicks and money for sponsors.
Nonetheless, Kyrgios will once again be central to all such controversies to begin with.
Edited by Krutik Jain
