Critics have questioned Kyrgios’ suitability because the male protagonist, given he admitted assaulting an ex-girlfriend in 2021 and has made a collection of feedback which have been thought-about misogynistic.
Final 12 months Kyrgios shared a publish from controversial influencer Andrew Tate earlier than later distancing himself from the self-proclaimed misogynist.
Requested if he understood the criticism given his earlier behaviour, Kyrgios informed BBC Sport: “After all. However that is what life is. You make feedback if you’re youthful and you alter.”
The previous world quantity 13 stated he’s a “completely different individual” now, including: “I am not going to sit down right here and say I am an incredible position mannequin, however I’ve grown and I am undoubtedly extra mature now.”
Kyrgios stated he has not given “a thought” to the chance he might turn into a poster boy for misogynists able to criticise girls’s sport if he beats Sabalenka.
“That is the one factor I am good at – hitting a ball over a internet and giving folks a present,” he stated.
“So I am unable to do something apart from hope me and Aryna play our greatest tennis and, on the finish of the day, whoever wins, that our handshake afterwards solidifies the union between women and men within the tennis world.”
Kyrgios, who has been open about his alcohol and drug abuse prior to now, stated he isn’t involved about shedding face if he’s overwhelmed by Sabalenka.
“I am by no means nervous. I understand how I’ve responded with issues in my life,” he stated.
“That is all a bonus. I’ve misplaced tennis matches earlier than, so it is probably not a giant deal.”
Kyrgios stated he sees the occasion, in addition to latest exhibitions in Atlanta and New York alongside Sabalenka, Naomi Osaka, Ben Shelton and Tommy Paul – as essential preparation for a fuller return to the ATP Tour in 2026.
A knee harm means he has not performed on the tour because the Miami Open in March, however he stated there are “actual constructive indicators” in his health.
