Nick Kyrgios defeats Aryna Sabalenka in Battle of the Sexes-style match

Sabalenka, a four-time Grand Slam champion, reflected the emotion she displays in competitive matches with a mischievous smile when she won a point.

Afterwards, Sabalenka said, “I felt great. I think I had a great fight. She was struggling, she was really tired.”

“I think it was a great level, I had a lot of great shots, a lot of movement on goal, knocking down shots. I really enjoyed the show. Next time I play him I already know his tactics, his strengths and weaknesses and it will definitely be a better match.

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

Critics had questioned Kyrgios’ suitability as the male protagonist in the match after he admitted to assaulting an ex-girlfriend in 2021 and made a series of comments deemed misogynistic.

The Australian, who was ranked 13th in the world at his peak, played with an air of indifference throughout the match. His movement was limited as he tried to shorten the points as much as possible.

He will delight in victory in just over an hour as he looks to gain fitness for what he hopes will be a more comprehensive return to the ATP Tour in 2026.

The duo, whose friendship seemed sincere and showed off with their jokes throughout the match, embraced warmly at the net.

“It was a really tough match to be honest, he is a great player and a great champion,” Kyrgios said.

“I didn’t really know what to expect. It was just another great opportunity to get out here, no matter what role I was playing.”