Kyrgios has long been a poll number in the sport, given his checkered history on and off the court.
The Australian has received numerous penalties over the course of his career for inappropriate behavior and fiery outbursts.
There were also allegations of domestic violence and accusations of sexual comments.
Kyrgios pleaded guilty to assaulting an ex-girlfriend in 2023, then had to distance himself from the controversial influence of Andrew Tate in 2024.
His new comments about playing Sabalenka – asking in a podcast if he wants to “try 100%” winning the movement Fuel Miskogyny.
In a press release announcing the event, Kyrgios took a very different tone.
“When the World Challenges You, You Answer the Call. I have a lot of respect for Aryna; she’s a powerhouse and a true champion,” he said.
Sabalenka didn’t seem to think it would have a negative impact on the perception of Women’s Sports, simply saying at the US Open that it was a “cool idea”.
Catherine Whitaker, co-host of the tennis podcast, believes the opposite.
“I don’t really see a catch for women’s tennis – I see a bow,” she told Sports Sport.
“This is a commercial event and a vehicle for one of Tennis’s worst misogynists who just want attention.
“If Sabalenka wins, she beats someone who is not suitable and a total who has not been relevant for many years. What will she win in the children of women’s tennis.
“If Kyrgios wins, he and others of the same mind will claim that it sets up everything he destroyed. It’s disgusting that it gives him a platform.
“I know it’s completely ludicrous that it’s going to happen in 2025.”