Kyrgios beats Sabalenka in ‘Battle of the Sexes’

Nick Kyrgios beat women’s world number one Aryna Sabalenka in the ‘Battle of the Sexes’ on Sunday in a much-hyped modified-rules clash that divided tennis fans.

Former Wimbledon finalist Kyrgios won 6-3, 6-3 in an exhibition match in Dubai that bore little resemblance to the era-defining 1973 showdown between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs.

Back then, more was at stake with the nascent women’s professional tour, set up by King, fighting for its legitimacy and prize money for female players still far lower than for men.

King, one of the all-time greats of the women’s game at the height of her powers, saw off the 55-year-old Riggs, a top player of her era, 6-4, 6-3, 6-3 in Houston.

On Sunday, each player received only one serve and the dimensions of Sabalenka’s side of the court were nine percent smaller in an attempt to limit Kyrgios’ power and speed advantage.

Critics questioned the motivation behind the event, organized by the agency that manages the careers of both players, beyond the broadcast ratings and money generated.

The suitability of Kyrgios — who admitted assaulting an ex-girlfriend in 2021 and has had to distance himself from misogynistic comments in the past — for the men’s role in the act has also sparked debate.

Kyrgios, the 2022 Wimbledon runner-up, has dropped to 671 in the rankings after playing just six matches at tournament level over the past three seasons, but the 30-year-old Australian still had enough to hold off four-time Grand Slam singles champion Sabalenka.

“Honestly, it was a very tough match. She’s a hell of a player and such a great champion,” Kyrgios said.

“He broke my serve several times and I had to go in.

“Honestly, I’d love to play her again and show her talent and what I have left in the tank. It ended up being a really tough battle.”

Kyrgios admitted he faced nerves as Sabalenka entered the ‘Eye of the Tiger’ arena in a sparkly jacket.

“Of course I was nervous. Not many would put their hand up to be in this position,” Kyrgios said.

“Sabalenka was up for the challenge and the score was close.”

Sabalenka, who retained her US Open title in September after losing in both the Australian and French Open finals this year, said she wanted a rematch with Kyrgios.

“I think I put up a great fight. She was struggling, she got really tired,” Sabalenka said.

“I hit a lot of great shots, I moved a lot towards the net, I really enjoyed the show. The next time I play, I already know his tactics, his strengths and weaknesses and it will definitely be a better match.

“I like to challenge myself and I would like to play again.”