For much of the past year, Nick Kyrgios’ career seemed to hang in limbo. His body, once capable of delivering thunderous serves and jaw-dropping winners, had betrayed him through a string of injuries. The Australian maverick had faded from the court he once electrified with his flair and unpredictability. It has been almost close to 110 days since we last saw him in action. However, his last singles match was played way before that (March 21, Miami Open - R64). But now, there seems to be a good news for all the Kyrgios fans…

As he inches closer to a long-awaited return, Kyrgios is feeling something he hasn’t felt in a long time—hope. In a previous instance we saw him admitting, “I know that I’m getting to the end of my tennis career now, especially with all these injuries. I can’t do another surgery where you’re out for another six to nine months.” He has been struggling with his knee, wrist, and other joints for quite some time now. But as per Kyrgios' latest revelation, he has now been able to spend more time on the practice court after a remarkable turnaround in his fitness.

During a recent interview with the Australian Associated Press, Nick Kyrgios said, “In the last month, I don’t know what it is. I was with my masseuse and physio last night, and something really has changed with my knee. It’s not swelling. It’s not feeling bad after a session. I don’t know whether to call it a miracle or anything, but my knee feels like it’s gotten younger by a couple of years.” For someone who had admitted to contemplating retirement due to physical pain and mental exhaustion, this resurgence feels nothing short of extraordinary.

He further added, “I don’t want to jinx it, but something in it has gone and kind of allowed me to put three, four days of training together on court for an hour-and-a-half, two hours and be able to actually recover and then build on that. So that’s been really exciting, and I haven’t really told anyone. I have a new lease on life on the court.”

Nick Kyrgios has played a total of six matches in the past three seasons (starting from 2023). But as things stand, it seems his trademark humor and swagger seem to be returning, piece by piece, as his body follows suit. And the timing couldn’t be more fitting. With the much-hyped ‘Battle of the Sexes’ exhibition against Aryna Sabalenka on the horizon, Kyrgios’ return adds an extra layer of intrigue. 

Sabalenka, the reigning powerhouse of the WTA, has been at the peak of her game, and facing her will not only test Kyrgios’ readiness but also mark a symbolic moment—a reminder of what tennis had been missing in his absence. For the fans, this showdown isn’t just about competition; it’s about redemption and resilience.

Nick Kyrgios’ “miracle” recovery could well set the stage for another chapter in his unpredictable but magnetic career. As he looks ahead to 2026, he seems ready to embrace the challenge once more—not just against Sabalenka, but against the doubts that nearly ended his story. What did both the players say about this epic showdown, which is scheduled to take place on December 28, 2025?

Nick Kyrgios and Aryna Sabalenka share their thoughts about the ‘Battle of the Sexes’

The buzz around tennis’ most talked-about exhibition—the ‘Battle of the Sexes’—has reached fever pitch. And at the heart of it stand two of the sport’s most polarizing yet magnetic figures—Nick Kyrgios and Aryna Sabalenka. Both have made headlines for reasons beyond their game, but this time, the attention is all about the spectacle that promises to bridge or perhaps challenge the divide between men’s and women’s tennis.

There has already been quite a controversy surrounding this event. For example, former pro Rennae Stubbs expressed her frustration over this event, stating that the face-off holds no real significance and is merely a PR stunt by the sports company management, Evolve. “The 150 years ago was important, when it was women trying to fight for equality and women's rights in the United States. That's when it was important. When we had 50,000 or 80,000 plus people in the Metrodome in Houston watching it, and the whole country watching it. No one gives a f**k about what's happening with Aryna Sabalenka and Nick Kyrgios. I mean, the only reason they're putting this on is because it is literally their company, Evolve, who's their management company, is going, we're going to make a bit of money here. This will be good. Get it on TV. Sell a few tickets. But what is in this for women's tennis?” said Stubbs.

She further claimed that unless Nick Kyrgios is really hurt and can’t run at all, he’s going to win this match so easily. Stubbs believes even if Kyrgios plays at 50%, he’s going to win this match. So, this is more like a joke to her and nothing else. Replying to all these criticisms in an interview with talkSPORT, Kyrgios said, “In whatever we do in today’s day and age, there is always going to be negative noise. There are always going to be people trying to tear us down in a way. But I have the ultimate respect for Aryna; we have a good friendship. I think it’s done in a good way. We are just going to go out there and compete, and at the end of the day, we are entertainers and are going to have some fun.”

Known for her explosive power and relentless energy, even Aryna Sabalenka acknowledged the uniqueness of the event but emphasized that she’s not treating it as a gimmick. We’ve even heard her say, “Well, Nick, you gotta be ready. You'd better be ready. Yeah… I'm gonna kick your a** man. I think the ATP is gonna cancel the battle. They'll be like, ok, if it’s happening, let it be Jannik or Carlos, but not Nick,” during a previous episode of Jay Shetty's podcast.

But having said that, she also mentioned, “I have so much respect for Nick and his talent, but make no mistake, I’m ready to bring my game. I’m proud to represent women’s tennis and to be part of this modern take on the iconic Battle of the Sexes match,” in another interview with BBC Sport. 

As the countdown to the ‘Battle of the Sexes’ continues, both Nick Kyrgios and Aryna Sabalenka seem focused on one goal: putting on a show worth remembering. Who, according to you, has the edge in this epic encounter at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai?

Written by

Sayantan Roy

Sayantan Roy is a seasoned tennis journalist at EssentiallySports. He brings a deep tactical understanding to his coverage, breaking down head-to-head records, match dynamics, and on-court strategies with precision. For more than two years, Sayantan has been a key member of the Live Events desk, delivering real-time insights and data-backed predictions for the platform’s Matchday Preview section. His analytical approach has sparked editorial debates and drawn recognition from respected tennis voices, including commentator and analyst Olly_Tennis. Combining his experience in writing with a passion for insightful sports journalism, Sayantan’s work serves as a trusted reference point for tennis fans around the world.

Know more

Edited by

Shrabana Sengupta