Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios has navigated a high-profile and contentious "Battle of the Sexes" exhibition, securing a straight-sets victory over current women's world number one Aryna Sabalenka in Dubai. The match, played before a sizable crowd at the Coca-Cola Arena, ended with a 6-3, 6-3 scoreline in favour of the Canberra native.
A Tough Test Despite the Scoreline
While the result suggests a comfortable win, Kyrgios was quick to emphasise the challenge posed by the powerful Belarusian. The 30-year-old Australian, whose ranking has plummeted to 671st following a spate of injuries and surgeries, admitted he was given a "gruelling work-out" and described the contest as "a really tough match." He revealed Sabalenka broke his serve multiple times during the encounter.
The exhibition borrowed its name from the historic 1973 clash between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs. However, this modern iteration came with its own set of unique and divisive modified rules. Players were allowed only one serve each, and Sabalenka competed from a slightly smaller court, a visual spectacle that prominent tennis journalist Jose Morgado labelled "awful" on television.
Mixed Reactions from the Tennis World
The event was not without its critics, both before and after the match. Some feared a one-sided loss for Sabalenka could undermine the progress of women's tennis. Post-match, the criticism continued. Journalist Ben Rothenberg bluntly stated, "The world is dumber for that match having happened," while former player Greg Rusedski called it "pointless" and questioned its benefit to the sport.
Despite the criticism, the on-court action was competitive. Sabalenka started strongly, holding her opening service game. Kyrgios found his rhythm, securing a crucial break in the seventh game to claim the first set. The world number one fought back to take a 3-1 lead in the second set, but Kyrgios, showcasing his trademark flair with underarm serves and clever chips, rallied to win five consecutive games and seal the match.
Looking Ahead to the Australian Summer
For Kyrgios, the match was an emotional and physical milestone. "From where I was, I wasn't able to use my right hand. To even get back out here and compete with Sabalenka, honestly it's emotional," he said post-match. The wildcard recipient for the upcoming Brisbane International (January 4-11) viewed the exhibition as a valuable stepping stone, though his Australian Open participation remains unconfirmed.
Sabalenka, the reigning US Open champion, took the unique challenge in stride. "Obviously playing against a guy is different, everything is much faster," she noted, adding that she felt ready for the new season and another tilt at the Australian Open title next month. The match served as a sharp, if unconventional, preparation for both athletes as the tennis world's focus shifts to the Australian summer.
