Nick Kyrgios defeated Aryna Sabalenka in straight sets Sunday during a high-profile “Battle of the Sexes” exhibition tennis match, winning 6-3, 6-3 in front of a sold-out crowd at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena.

The match, played under modified exhibition rules, drew international attention due to the contrasting backgrounds of the two players.

Kyrgios entered the event after an extended period sidelined by injuries and is currently ranked outside the top 600 in ATP singles.

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Sabalenka, by contrast, is the women’s world number one and a four-time Grand Slam champion.

Following the match, Kyrgios said the event carried unique pressure.

“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.”

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According to Reuters, the exhibition was played on an adjusted court designed to balance the matchup, with Sabalenka competing on a slightly smaller “equaliser” court.

The match also featured a one-serve-per-point rule, which contributed to service breaks and momentum swings throughout both sets.

“With a one-serve-per-point rule in effect, both players faltered on their deliveries in crucial moments before Kyrgios broke for a 4-3 lead and went on to take the opening set,” Reuters reported.

Kyrgios carried that momentum into the second set despite an early setback. After falling behind 1-3, he recovered to win five consecutive games, closing out the match with another 6-3 set.

“It was a really tough match,” Kyrgios said.

“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.”

Kyrgios credited Sabalenka’s aggressive play for keeping the match competitive and said he was forced to adjust as the contest unfolded.

“As I said before, this whole event, whatever role I was to play, it was another great opportunity to go out here,” he said.

“She broke my serve numerous times. And honestly, I had to strap it because she was putting the pressure on, hitting amazing shots.”

He also expressed interest in a potential rematch.

“I would love to play her again and showcase her talent, and also what I have left in the tank,” Kyrgios said.

“Ultimately, it was a really hard-fought battle, and there were breaks back and forth.”

Kyrgios said the exhibition represented an opportunity to expand the sport’s appeal and experiment with new formats.

“Seeing someone as great as Aryna out here, and myself, it truly is a spectacle, and I think this is a great moving stepping stone forward for the sport of tennis,” he said.

Sabalenka responded positively to the match outcome and praised the overall level of play.

She said the exhibition allowed both competitors to test their games in a unique environment.

“I think I put on a great fight,” Sabalenka said.

“He was struggling. He got really tight. I’m happy to see that the guy is getting tight and (after) taking away one of my serves. I think it was a great level.”

She said she was encouraged by her own performance and believes a future matchup could be even more competitive.

“I made a lot of great shots, moved a lot to the net … great drop shots, Nick, great serving,” Sabalenka said.

“I really enjoyed the show, and I feel like the next time I play him, I already know the tactics. I know his strengths, his weaknesses, and it’s going to be a better match for sure.”

The exhibition drew a strong reaction online, with social media users offering a wide range of commentary following Kyrgios’ victory.

Tennis battle of the sexes
Equal pay but men play 5 sets to woman’s 3 in grand slams

The match between Kyrgios and Sabalenka
Her side of the court is significantly smaller, making it harder for him???

No.1 v No. 671

Unfair battle of the sexes more like pic.twitter.com/L93eiAXbaw

— Neilby70 (@Gooner_70ns) December 28, 2025

Sorry my bad…. 671st in the world

— Will Joy (@willjoy13) December 28, 2025

Nick Kyrgios, who is ranked 671st and has played just six tour-level matches in three years, still easily beat four-time grand slam champion and the world’s top female player Aryna Sabalenka in a ‘battle of the sexes’ display match.

This is why women need single sex sport. pic.twitter.com/Kws4ai9Blt

— Family Education Trust (@FamEdTrust) December 28, 2025