Kyrgios Vs Sabalenka ‘Battle of the Sexes’ Triggers Fan Complaint
The same complaint was raised between viewers for the 'Battle of the Sexes' tennis clash between Nick Kyrgios and Aryna Sabalenka on Sunday.
The exhibition between women’s world No. 1 Sabalenka and former Wimbledon finalist Kyrgios took place at the 17,000 Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai - serving as the fourth 'Battle of the Sexes' match in history.
The contest was put on by the Evolve agency which represents both players and generated huge interest and chatter.
Former world No.13 Kyrgios has been extremely inactive and competed just five times in 2025 due to a wrist injury, while Sabalenka won four titles, reached five other finals and claimed victory in 59 of her 71 matches in the season.
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They played out a fun, competitive match where both showed of their incredible abilities but there was one major issue highlighted by fans.
The match was played under a modified set of rules, including a best of three sets and a 10-point deciding tie-break if required.
Both players were also limited to one serve each as opposed to the usual two - in a move done to restrict Kyrgios’s power.
Why was Sabalenka's court smaller than Kyrgios?
But in addition, Sabalenka's court was nine per cent smaller than Kyrgios' - which operated within the standard dimensions.
As per Evolve, this was done as data found that women players move about 9% slower on average than men - hence the levelling of the playing field.
However, the alteration meant the court looked extremely odd on viewing and many did not understand the move.
One user on X commented: "What on God’s earth is this court. Net looks like it’s just been rolled out last minute."
A second said: "How is this equal when Kyrgios has less court area to aim. Absolute farce and exhibition publicity stunt."
A third agreed: "This Sabalenka Kyrgios match is quite balanced. It is a shame they made this disproportionate court!"
A fourth wrote: "Sabalenka's side of the court is 9% smaller than Kyrgios' side lmao what a circus really."
Despite the disadvantage and a slow-start, as well as his fitness being called into question, Kyrgios found his form and began producing a fine array of shots to win 6-3 6-3 in straight sets.
Four-time Grand Slam winner Sabalenka conjured up a number of superb points herself and showed why she is the best women's player in the game, drawing high praise from her opponent in the process.
Tickets for the special attraction match cost around £100 in the upper tier stands, with those on courtside benches paying more £600 and higher.
Former footballers Ronaldo Nazario, Kaka and Peter Crouch were all in attendance.
Back in 1973, Billie Jean King Bobby Riggs in the second Battle of the Sexes match in an event which was watched by 90 million people and defined an era.
The latest in the series had a different strand to it and was more about putting on a spectacle as opposed to proving equality.
Kyrgios and Sabalenka react to 'Battle of the Sexes' match
"I felt great. I think I put up a great fight. He was struggling, he got really tired," Sabalenka reflected, before admitting interest in a rematch.
"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. Next time when I play him, I already know the tactics, his strengths and weaknesses, and it will be a better match for sure.
"I love to challenge myself and I'd love to play again."
Kyrgios was also on the same page in being keen for a second match, showering Sabalenka with praise before the post-match presenation.
"Honestly it was a really tough match, she is a hell of a player and such a great champion," he stated.
"I didn't really know what to expect. Whatever role I was to play, it was just another great opportunity to go out here.
"Honestly, I would love to play her again and showcase her talent and what I have left in the tank."
Topics: Nick Kyrgios
Josh Lawless