Nick Kyrgios beats Aryna Sabalenka in highly publicised ‘Battle of the Sexes’ exhibition

DUBAI: Nick Kyrgios defeated women’s world number one Aryna Sabalenka 6-3, 6-3 in a much-discussed “Battle of the Sexes” exhibition match on Sunday in Dubai, an event that sparked debate across the tennis world due to its format, participants, and purpose.

The exhibition, played under modified rules, drew comparisons to the historic 1973 “Battle of the Sexes” between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs, though critics argued it lacked the cultural and sporting significance of the original contest.

Modified rules and exhibition format

To offset Kyrgios’ physical advantages, each player was limited to a single serve, and Sabalenka’s side of the court was reduced by nine per cent. Despite the adjustments, the former Wimbledon finalist controlled key moments to secure a straight-sets victory.

Unlike the 1973 match — which symbolised a fight for equality, legitimacy, and prize money in women’s tennis — Sunday’s encounter was widely seen as a commercial spectacle. The event was organised by the same agency that manages both players, raising questions about its primary motivation beyond broadcast ratings and revenue.

Controversy surrounding Kyrgios’ involvement

Kyrgios’ participation also stirred controversy. The Australian has previously admitted to assaulting an ex-girlfriend in 2021 and has faced criticism for misogynistic remarks earlier in his career. His suitability as the male representative in a “Battle of the Sexes” format was therefore questioned by fans and commentators alike.

Now ranked 671 after playing just six tour-level matches over the past three seasons, the 30-year-old nonetheless showed flashes of his elite ability against Sabalenka, a four-time Grand Slam singles champion.

Kyrgios praises Sabalenka’s performance

Following the match, Kyrgios praised Sabalenka’s competitiveness and admitted he felt nervous before the encounter.

“Honestly, it was a really tough match. She is a hell of a player and such a great champion,” Kyrgios said.

“She broke my serve numerous times, and I had to strap in. I’d love to play her again and showcase her talent and what I have left in the tank.”

Kyrgios also revealed he felt the pressure as Sabalenka entered the arena to Eye of the Tiger, wearing a sparkling jacket.

“Of course, I was nervous. Not many people would have put their hand up to be in this position,” he added.

Sabalenka open to a rematch

Sabalenka, who retained her US Open title in September after reaching the Australian Open and French Open finals earlier this year, said she enjoyed the challenge and would welcome a rematch.

“I think I put up a great fight. He was struggling, he got really tired,” Sabalenka said.

“I made a lot of great shots, came to the net, and used drop shots. I really enjoyed the show.”

She added that a second match would be even more competitive:

“Next time when I play him, I already know the tactics — his strengths and weaknesses — and it will be a better match for sure. I love to challenge myself, and I’d love to play again.”

Mixed reaction from tennis fans

While the match generated significant attention, fan reaction remained divided, with some praising the entertainment value and others questioning its relevance and messaging in modern tennis.

Despite the controversy, the Kyrgios vs Sabalenka exhibition succeeded in one respect — putting a global spotlight on an unconventional tennis showdown that continues to fuel discussion long after the final point.