Nick Kyrgios has overcome women’s World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka in a ‘really tough’ match dubbed the ‘Battle of the Sexes’ that has divided the tennis world. The Aussie tennis star won 6-3 6-3 in front of a big crowd at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena, in an exhibition match featuring some modified rules.
Sabalenka’s side of the court was nine per cent smaller, making it harder for Kyrgios to hit winners. The players were only given one serve per point, making it riskier for Kyrgios to try and hit his booming first serve as he didn’t have the luxury of a second.
Aryna Sabalenka’s side of the court was smaller than Nick Kyrgios’ in their ‘Battle of the Sexes’. Image: Tennis Channel/Getty
There had been concerns leading into the match that the ‘Battle of the Sexes’ would undermine advances in the women’s game. The original ‘Battle of the Sexes’ took place in 1973 between American great Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs – which King won in straight sets in Houston.
This time it was Kyrgios winning in straight sets, although the World No.671 didn’t have it easy. Sabalenka unleashed a number of big groundstrokes to test her Aussie opponent, who admitted after the match he was relieved to win.
Nick Kyrgios relieved to beat Aryna Sabalenka
Kyrgios has been plagued by injuries over the last few years, only playing six matches at ATP level since the start of 2022. The former Wimbledon runner-up has been given a wildcard into the Brisbane International at the start of January, but is still waiting to learn whether he receives one for the Australian Open.
“Honestly it was a really tough match, she is a hell of a player and such a great champion,” Kyrgios said afterwards. “I didn’t really know what to expect. Whatever role I was to play, it was just another great opportunity to go out here.
“She broke my serve numerous times, and I had to strap in. Honestly, I would love to play her again and showcase her talent and what I have left in the tank. Ultimately it was a really hard fought battle, and there was breaks back and forward.”
Aryna Sabalenka and her goddaughter Nicole with Nick Kyrgios after their ‘Battle of the Sexes’ match. (Photo by Christopher Pike/Getty Images)
Nick Kyrgios’ side of the court was bigger than Aryna Sabalenka’s. Image: Tennis Channel
Sabalenka won her fourth career grand slam title at the US Open in September and showed she’s in good form for the Australian Open. The Belarusian won back-to-back Australian Open titles in 2023 and 2024.
“It felt different, the court was different,” the 27-year-old said. “Obviously playing against a guy is different, everything is much faster. I hope for the next couple of days I will have great recovery, I’m pretty much ready for the season and I hope I will bring great tennis.”