Nick Kyrgios Defeats World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in Modern “Battle of the Sexes” Match

In a highly publicized tennis exhibition billed as a modern “Battle of the Sexes,” Australia’s Nick Kyrgios defeated reigning women’s world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in straight sets, 6-3, 6-3, at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena on December 28, 2025. The event, more spectacle than sport, drew fans, criticism and widespread media attention as one of the season’s most talked-about exhibition matches.

Played under modified rules — including a one-serve-per-point format and Sabalenka’s side of the court reduced by roughly 9 percent to “level” the playing field — the contest was intended to echo the historic 1973 Billie Jean King vs. Bobby Riggs matchup. Despite the entertainment bent, Kyrgios used his signature flair, drop shots and court craft to overcome Sabalenka over roughly 70 minutes of competitive tennis.

Kyrgios, once a Wimbledon finalist and now ranked No. 671 on the ATP list following injury setbacks and limited tour play in 2025, shrugged off nerves and post-match described the challenge as “a really tough match,” praising Sabalenka as “a hell of a competitor and such a great champion.” 

Sabalenka, for her part, acknowledged the spectacle’s value while expressing eagerness for a future rematch: “I feel like next time when I play him I’m going to know the tactics, his strengths and his weaknesses, and it’s going to be a better match for sure.”

Sabalenka’s 2025 campaign has otherwise been a tour de force: the Belarusian reached multiple Grand Slam finals and held the WTA’s top ranking for much of the year on the strength of her power game and consistent deep runs in major events.

Despite its flash and entertainment value — including Sabalenka’s pre-match entrance to “Eye of the Tiger” and playful in-match flourishes — the match ultimately belonged to Kyrgios.