Nick Kyrgios Defeats Aryna Sabalenka 6-3 6-3 in “Battle of the Sexes” Exhibition
The “Battle of the Sexes” exhibition match on Sunday saw Nick Kyrgios triumph over Aryna Sabalenka 6-3 6-3, echoing Billie Jean King’s historic 1973 victory over Bobby Riggs. However, the modern iteration sparked debate over its significance and whether it adequately captured the essence of King’s landmark showdown, which symbolized a pivotal moment in the fight for gender equality in tennis.
A Clash of Eras and Stakes
The encounter between four-time Grand Slam champion Sabalenka and former world No. 13 Kyrgios was framed as a display of entertainment. Critics, though, raised concerns that the match might overshadow women’s tennis achievements and diminish the broader cultural impact of King’s original battle. “This year’s clash had the same tagline, but it lacked the stakes of my showdown with Riggs,” King told the BBC. “That was a fight for social change in a different cultural era.”
“I don’t think many people would have put their hand up to be in this position, especially in my position,” Kyrgios said. “Obviously, Aryna was up for the challenge. The scoreline was closer than it was. I was under the pump there … and then anything happens once the crowd gets behind it. I was nervous.”
The match took place in Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena, with Kyrgios playing on the slightly smaller “equalizer” court designed for women’s tennis. Despite the modified rules, including a one-serve-per-point format, the contest remained competitive. Sabalenka’s precision was tested in critical moments, while Kyrgios broke through for a 4-3 lead in the first set, showcasing his resilience.
During the second set, Kyrgios struggled after going 1-3 down, visibly exhausted and drenched in sweat. Sabalenka, meanwhile, used a strategic timeout to dance to music, but she eventually sent a shot long, allowing Kyrgios to level the score at 3-3. The match was described as a hard-fought battle, with momentum shifting back and forth.
Kyrgios, an active ATP Tour player despite recent wrist and knee injuries, managed only five professional singles matches in 2025. “It was a really tough match,” he added. “She’s a hell of a competitor and such a great champion. Obviously, she’s a multiple Grand Slam champion. And I didn’t really know what to expect.”
“She broke my serve numerous times. And honestly, I had to strap it because she was putting the pressure on; hitting amazing shots. I would love to play her again and showcase her talent and also what I have left in the tank.”
The event highlighted Kyrgios’ determination to engage with the legacy of the “Battle of the Sexes,” even as questions lingered about its relevance in today’s context of gender equality in sports. While Sabalenka’s presence on the court underscored her dominance, Kyrgios’ performance offered a glimpse into his enduring passion for competition.
