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Aryna Sabalenka hopes to bring Novak Djokovic into her corner for Nick Kyrgios match

Originally posted on HITC | By Matthew Johns | Last updated Nov 6, 2025 10:31 AM ET

Aryna Sabalenka is hoping to get a bit of backing from Novak Djokovic before she takes on Nick Kyrgios in their highly anticipated Battle of the Sexes match.

Sabalenka has agreed to face Kyrgios in Dubai later this year, with the event already drawing plenty of attention. The build-up has seen lots of talk about how it will play out, especially after Kyrgios mentioned that he’s had messages from fellow ATP players about it.

But Sabalenka is looking to bring 24-time Grand Slam winner Djokovic into her camp as she prepares for the showdown against Kyrgios.

Why Sabalenka wants Djokovic in her corner

Sabalenka and Djokovic have grown closer in recent years, and the WTA number one has even received advice from the Serbian star.

Djokovic also has a history with Kyrgios. Their relationship started off rocky, but over time, they’ve become friends. That could make the upcoming Battle of the Sexes a bit awkward for him.

Speaking to The National, Sabalenka shared that she’s hoping to get Djokovic on her team for the match and talked about how things have developed.

Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images

“I really hope to bring him [Djokovic] into my box and be my coach just to put extra pressure on Nick,” she said. “I already told Nick, like, ‘Nick, you know what, Novak is really helping me with the tactics and everything.’”

Kyrgios responded by pointing out their head-to-head record. “Well, he always struggled with me.” But Sabalenka fired back: “But he always won. So you know what? Probably you’re going to struggle against me as well.”

Aryna Sabalenka explains why she is glad to play Nick Kyrgios over other ATP players

There has been plenty of talk around the match, and not all of it positive. Some have questioned the value of a Battle of the Sexes event in today’s game.

Sabalenka told The National that one reason she agreed to take part was because Kyrgios hasn’t been competing regularly this season, suggesting she might not have accepted if he was fully active on tour.

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“First of all, it’s going to be a great show,” Sabalenka said. “And I feel like Nick is a showman in a way. I’m happy with my opponent.

“And I feel like if I would play against someone who’s been playing on tour, has matches in his back, I would probably not have that much of a chance. And against Nick, I feel like there is something that I can keep up with.”

Kyrgios hasn’t played singles since March but recently shared an update on his fitness as he prepares for the match.

The Dubai exhibition between Sabalenka and Kyrgios is set for Sunday, December 28.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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