Aryna Sabalenka has fired yet another confident statement ahead of meeting Nick Kyrgios as the WTA world No. 1 insists she is "serious" about wanting to beat the Australian.
In 10 days, the Belarusian four-time Grand Slam champion and the 2022 Wimbledon finalist will meet in Dubai, in a modern version of the Battle of the Sexes.
Going into the match, many are wondering one thing - how competitive Sabalenka will be against Kyrgios and if she can pull off a win. The 27-year-old believes that she can.
Dubai always brings incredible energy and I cant wait to step into the arena and connect with the fans. This match is something totally different, and Im excited to test myself in a new mixed-gender format. Fans can expect an intense match and a lot of fun Im coming to win. Nick better be ready," the WTA world No. 1 said.
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Sabalenka: I'm serious about this
The match will be played in a best-of-three-sets format. If it goes into a third set, a match tie-break will take place. Also, players will be limited to one serve per point.
Im excited, but Im serious about this. When I step on court, I want to win no matter the format," reigning US Open champion Sabalenka said.
When it comes to Kyrgios' expectations, the Australian tennis player highlights that he wants to make it a show for the crowd and something memorable. Also, he made it clear that he will be out there looking to beat the top-ranked WTA player.
Im all in for putting on a massive night of tennis and entertainment. Sabalenka hits the ball harder than half the guys on tour, and with the court dimensions changed, this becomes a battle of instinct over athleticism," Kyrgios said.
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Kyrgios has admitted in multiple interviews over the past couple of weeks that he feels "pressure" going into the match because he "cannot allow" himself to lose.
