Nick Kyrgios earned the bragging rights in the controversial ‘Battle of the Sexes’ clash as he beat Aryna Sabalenka in straight-sets in Dubai.
Kyrgios proved too much for the women’s world No 1 as he won 6-3, 6-3 on Sunday.
In a match that caused much debate in the build-up, the outcome will raise further eyebrows as the encounter failed to live up to its hype. Coming five decades after Billie Jean King famously beat Bobby Riggs – a significant moment in the fight for greater equality in sport, in Houston in September 1973 – the merits of this contest in Dubai divided opinion.
As expected by many, the contest turned out to be played at a pedestrian pace.
Kyrgios, the 2022 Wimbledon finalist and who has slipped to 671st in the rankings after three injury-hit years, had too much for Sabalenka – who was unable to get into her rhythm and showcase her best game in the adjusted format.
Adjusted rules
The court was altered so Sabalenka’s receiving side was reduced by nine per cent in the dimensions, giving Kyrgios a smaller target to hit in an attempt to ensure a more level playing field.
Both players were only allowed one serve each and, with differing opinions about who that benefitted, it hampered Sabalenka more as she missed first serves in the decisive moments.
They were also given 60-second timeouts, but the seriousness of those was summed up by Sabalenka choosing to dance the Macarena during hers.
Nick Kyrgios humble in victory
‘It was a really tough match,” the Australian said in an on-court interview. ‘She’s a hell of a competitor and such a great champion, obviously a multiple grand slam champion. I didn’t know what to expect and what role I played – it was just another great opportunity.
‘She broke my serve numerous times and I had to strap in.
‘Ultimately it was a really hard fought battle, and there were breaks back and forward. Seeing someone as great as Sabalenka out here and myself, it truly is a spectacle, and a great stepping stone forward for the sport of tennis.’
Aryna Sabalenka relishing a rematch
Despite defeat, Sabalenka said she would be keen to take on the Australian again.
‘I felt great, I think I put up a great fight and he was struggling, he got really tired,’ she said.
‘I think it was a great level, I made a lot of great shots, moved a lot to the net, drop shots. Really enjoyed the show. I felt like next time when I play him, I already know the tactics, I know his strengths and weaknesses, and it’s going to be a better match for sure.
‘I love to challenge myself and I’d love to play again.’
