Nick Kyrgios Considers Battle of the Sexes Against Aryna Sabalenka a ‘Great Stepping Stone’ for Tennis

Nick Kyrgios won 6-3, 6-3 against Aryna Sabalenka in the Battle of the Sexes match.

Nick Kyrgios Considers Battle of the Sexes Against Aryna Sabalenka a ‘Great Stepping Stone’ for Tennis

Nick Kyrgios, Aryna Sabalenka (Image via X/HQ VITA, Aryna Sabalenka Archive)

🔍 Explore this post with:

ChatGPTPerplexityGrok AIGoogle AI

The term “Battle of the Sexes” might sound outdated to modern tennis fans, but the Dubai exhibition between Nick Kyrgios and world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka brought the concept back with real intrigue. What could have been a publicity gimmick turned into one of the most talked-about events of the off-season.

The match delivered on its billing, offering the kind of entertainment that reminds fans why tennis remains such a compelling sport. Staged at the Coca-Cola Arena, the exhibition lived up to the hype as Kyrgios secured a 6–3, 6–3 win. Following the match, the Australian reflected on what this modern “Battle of the Sexes” could mean for the sport’s broader appeal. Kyrgios said in the post-match interview:

I would love to play her again and showcase her talent and also what I have left in the tank. It was a really hard fought battle. It was breaks back and forth. Tennis is honestly.. I wouldn’t call myself the champ tonight. Seeing someone as great as Aryna out here and myself.. it truly is a spectacle. I think this is a great stepping stone forward for the sport of tennis.

To ensure a more level contest, organizers introduced a few unique adjustments. Sabalenka’s court was reduced by roughly 10%, and both players were limited to a single serve per point rather than the usual two. The modifications added an element of intrigue and balance, making the exhibition an interesting experiment in mixed-format tennis.

It took a minute for the players to download the new mechanics. The opening was a bit shaky as they adjusted to the modified ruleset, but once the engine warmed up, the gameplay was solid.

Nick Kyrgios admits he was nervous

Despite the scoreline looking clean on paper, the match was marked by severe tension. Nick Kyrgios actually admitted he was sweating it. Kyrgios added:

Of course, I was nervous. I don’t think many people would’ve put their hand up to be in this position. Especially in my position. Aryna was up for the challenge. The scoreline was closer than it was. I was under the pump there. She nearly broke me back. Anything happens once the crowd gets behind her. I was nervous.

Nick Kyrgios
Nick Kyrgios (Image via X/Tennis Australia)

The vibe was definitely chaotic good. The viewers saw Kyrgios throwing in his signature underarm serves, Aryna Sabalenka dancing during timeouts, and comically exaggerated grunts that felt like they were straight out of a fighting game.

But when the ball was in play, they were ripping it. Sabalenka, playing like the boss character she is, even walked out in a sparkling overcoat. Kyrgios had to dig deep in the second set, coming back from a break down.

Will the fans see a rematch?

If the post-match reactions are any indication, this event may not be a one off. Sabalenka, gracious in defeat, hinted that she’s eager for a rematch, suggesting the “Battle of the Sexes” concept could return sooner rather than later.

Nick Kyrgios and Aryna Sabalenka
Nick Kyrgios and Aryna Sabalenka (via Punto de Break)

Kyrgios seems down for it too, noting that he wouldn’t even call himself the “champ” of the night because the real winner was the sport itself.

If this is the future of tennis exhibitions, it adds to the controversy surrounding the sport. It could or could not be a great stepping stone for the game, but it is definitely good content. Next, the duo will travel to Australia to prepare for the Australian Open. Kyrgios has already announced his return to Brisbane.

Also Read: Ex-ATP Pro Convinced No One Other Than Jannik Sinner or Carlos Alcaraz Can Win 2026 Australian Open: “Difficult to Imagine”