Overview

• The cross-gender exhibition is scheduled for January 2026 in Hong Kong, reviving a modern take on the King–Riggs narrative.
• Speaking with Alexander Bublik on a podcast, Kyrgios said he would not need to play at 100% and predicted a 6-2 score while saying he would represent the men.
• The remarks drew swift online criticism, with many users calling the tone arrogant and dismissive of women’s tennis.
• Sabalenka is described in coverage as the women’s world No. 1 and advanced to the US Open semifinals on the same day the comments circulated.
• Kyrgios has not played since March after a run of injuries and withdrawals from recent majors, adding uncertainty to his competitive readiness.