In the “Battle of the Sexes” on Sunday, Nick Kyrgios defeated women’s world number one Aryna Sabalenka in a well reported match under altered regulations that polarized tennis fans.
In an exhibition match in Dubai that bore little similarity to the historic 1973 showdown between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs, former Wimbledon finalist Kyrgios prevailed 6-3, 6-3.
The fledgling women’s professional tour, founded by King, was fighting for its validity at the time, and prize money for female players was still far less than for male players.
In Houston, the 55-year-old Riggs, a top player in his era, was defeated 6-4, 6-3, 6-3 by King, one of the greatest women’s players of all time and at the height of her abilities.
In an effort to limit Kyrgios’ advantage in strength and speed, Sabalenka’s side of the court was nine percent smaller on Sunday and each player only received one serve.
The agency that oversees both players’ careers organized the event, but many questioned its motivation beyond the money and broadcast ratings.
Debate also centered on whether Kyrgios, who acknowledged hitting an ex-girlfriend in 2021 and has had to distance himself from prior misogynistic remarks, was appropriate for the men’s role in the act.
After competing in just six tour-level matches over the previous three seasons, Kyrgios, the 2022 Wimbledon runner-up, has fallen to 671 in the rankings; nonetheless, the 30-year-old Australian still had enough to defeat four-time Grand Slam singles champion Sabalenka.
“Honestly, it was a really tough match. She is a hell of a player and such a great champion,” said Kyrgios.
“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.”
As Sabalenka strolled into the arena to “Eye of the Tiger” wearing a dazzling jacket, Kyrgios acknowledged he struggled with anxiety.
“Of course I was nervous. Not many people would have put their hand up to be in this position. Sabalenka was up for the challenge, and the scoreline was close,” said Kyrgios.
After losing in the Australian and French Open finals this year, Sabalenka, who won the US Open again in September, expressed her desire to face Kyrgios again.
“I think I put up a great fight. He was struggling, he got really tired,” said Sabalenka.
“I made a lot of great shots, moved a lot to the net, drop shots. Really enjoyed the show. 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.”
