"2025 was the year of Aryna Sabalenka for so many reasons. She reached three of the four grand slam finals, winning her fourth major title at the US Open and further positioning herself as a generational great. From her humble origins as a volatile, one-note ball-basher, the 27-year-old has admirably evolved into an increasingly complete player. She is the best player in the world for a second year in succession."
"It is not difficult to see why this match would be appealing to Kyrgios, who over the past three years has had an unending string of injuries, playing just six official matches during this period. At 30 years old, it is unclear whether he will be able to return to the tour in any consistent or competitive manner. He is evidently here to earn as much money as he can, while he still can."
"Sabalenka's participation in this event is far more noteworthy and disappointing. She reached three of the four grand slam finals in 2025, winning her fourth major title at the US Open and further positioning herself as a generational great. From her humble origins as a volatile, aggressive young hopeful, the 27-year-old has admirably evolved into an increasingly complete player."
Sabalenka reached three of four grand slam finals in 2025, winning the US Open and consolidating her status as a generational great. She evolved from a volatile, one-note ball-basher into an increasingly complete player and remains world No 1 for a second consecutive year. An exhibition in Dubai billed as the Battle of the Sexes will pair Sabalenka with Nick Kyrgios. The event has been heavily promoted but faces criticism as an inane spectacle. Kyrgios has suffered persistent injuries, appearing in only six official matches over three years and appears motivated by financial gain. Sabalenka's choice to play has prompted disappointment.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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