Canberra's tennis star Nick Kyrgios has launched a fiery defence of his fitness and form while declaring he is "in" for a potential 'Battle of the Sexes' rematch with world number one Aryna Sabalenka. The comments came as the 30-year-old touched down in Brisbane for his long-awaited return to the ATP Tour.
Mobbed by Fans and Facing Criticism
Kyrgios was greeted by a swarm of media and supporters upon his arrival in Queensland for the Brisbane International, where he will compete as a wildcard in both singles and doubles. The fanfare, however, was accompanied by renewed scrutiny over his physical condition following years of injury setbacks that have seen his ranking plummet to world No. 671.
The former world No. 13, who boasts victories over tennis legends Nadal, Federer, Murray, and Djokovic, hasn't played an official ATP Tour match since Miami in March. He addressed doubts head-on, particularly those from former British player Greg Rusedski, who questioned his readiness for an Australian Open wildcard.
"Let me know when Greg sold out a stadium the last time he played," Kyrgios retorted when asked about the criticism.
Open to a Revised 'Battle of the Sexes' Showdown
Amid the comeback buzz, talk has reignited about a follow-up to his exhibition match against Aryna Sabalenka. Kyrgios took to social media to simply state "I'm in" after Sabalenka outlined her plans for "revenge" with a revised format.
Sabalenka, also in Brisbane for the tournament, proposed that in a rematch, her court would remain full-sized (not reduced as before) and that she would receive two serves to Kyrgios's one. Reflecting on their previous encounter, which he won 6-3, 6-3, Kyrgios acknowledged the unique pressure of the event.
"There was a lot of pressure there... It was just an incredible event. All props to Aryna as well. She put up a great fight, she's a great player and I'd love to do it again," Kyrgios elaborated at Brisbane Airport. "Obviously, I'm not sure what circumstances that they will be under, but I'd love to play her again."
Brisbane as a Springboard for Australian Open Hopes
The Brisbane International, where Kyrgios was champion in 2018, represents a critical testing ground. A successful run could bolster his case for a coveted wildcard into his home Grand Slam, with Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley set to finalise entries before January 12.
Kyrgios expressed his excitement at being back on court and healthy. "I'm really excited to be back. Obviously, have some great memories here," he said. "Just glad to be healthy and I'll do my best to get back out on court. My goals are to go out there and enjoy myself... I don't want to take any of that for granted."
His first practice session in Brisbane drew a huge crowd, with his signature 'tweeners' thrilling fans. As the spotlight intensifies, Kyrgios's comeback trail begins in earnest, blending high-profile exhibition prospects with the serious business of climbing back up the ATP rankings.
