Under the bright lights of Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena, with curiosity buzzing louder than the crowd itself, Aryna Sabalenka stepped onto the court knowing the Battle of the Sexes wasn’t just another exhibition. It was a spectacle. A statement. And perhaps, a spark for something more. On Sunday, December 28, she faced one of tennis’ most unpredictable entertainers - Nick Kyrgios.

Before the match, Sabalenka admitted, “Of course, there’s pressure, but it’s also a privilege… This match is competitive, fun, and on a big stage, so I’m really looking forward to it.” She even fought hard against the Aussie. But what followed was a straight-sets defeat (3-6, 3-6). But for Sabalenka, though, this wasn’t a loss that lingered like a wound. It felt more like a lesson. The four-time Grand Slam champion walked off the court with a smile and a spark in her eyes - one that hinted at unfinished business. In her on-court interview, she didn’t hide what was already forming in her mind.

“I love revenge. I love to challenge myself. I would love to play again,” said Aryna Sabalenka. Rather than dwelling on the defeat, the Belarusian framed the match as an opportunity. She admitted the clash gave her clarity - about Nick Kyrgios’ strengths, his patterns, and the subtle weaknesses that might not be obvious at first glance. Against a player known for improvisation and audacity, Sabalenka treated the exhibition like reconnaissance.

“I felt great. I think I put on a great fight. He was struggling. He got really tight. I’m happy to see the guy is getting tight when taking away one of my serves. I think it was a great level. I made a lot of great shots. Moved a lot to the net. Great drop shots, Nick. Great serving. I really enjoyed the show. I think… not I think… I feel like next time I play him, I will already know the tactic. I know his strengths and weaknesses. It’s gonna be a better match for sure,” she added.

According to Aryna Sabalenka, playing against a guy is completely different tennis because everything is faster here, and she believes this was a great fitness test for her. And if the tennis world knows one thing about Sabalenka, it’s that she rarely leaves a puzzle unsolved. The exhibition may not count toward rankings or trophies, but the competitive fire was unmistakable. What did Nick Kyrgios say after this epic duel, though?

Nick Kyrgios hails Aryna Sabalenka as “a hell of a competitor”

For Nick Kyrgios, the scoreboard in Dubai told one story. His voice afterward told another. Fresh off his straight-sets win over world number one, Aryna Sabalenka, at the Battle of the Sexes exhibition, Kyrgios didn’t celebrate like a conqueror. Instead, he spoke like a man who had just survived something intense, meaningful, and unexpectedly emotional.

“It was a really tough match. She’s a hell of a competitor and such a great champion. She’s a multiple grand slam champion. I didn’t really know what to expect. As I said before this event, whatever role I was to play, it was just a great opportunity to go out here. She broke my serve numerous times. I had to strap in, honestly. She was putting the pressure on. She was hitting some amazing shots,” said Kyrgios.

There was no bravado in his tone - only respect. Even the Aussie stated, “I would love to play her again and showcase her talent and also what I have left in the tank. It was a really hard fought battle. It was breaks back and forth. Tennis is honestly... I wouldn’t call myself the champ tonight. Seeing someone as great as Aryna out here and myself... it truly is a spectacle. I think this is a great stepping stone forward for the sport of tennis.”

When asked if nerves played a part while he was on the court against Aryna Sabalenka, Kyrgios didn’t hesitate to admit that he was a bit nervous. The buildup alone had been relentless - six months of debate, hype, and scrutiny. And for Kyrgios, the stakes were deeply personal. “From where I was 2 years ago, I was sidelined. I wasn’t able to use my right hand. To get back out here and compete with someone as great as Aryna is honestly pretty emotional.”

He even hailed Aryna Sabalenka as an “amazing athlete.” But did this event live up to the expectations of all the tennis lovers? Well, according to the former British world number one Annabel Croft, “I think it didn't quite live up to what I thought it might be.” What are your own thoughts on this, though? Share with us in the comment box.

Written by

Sayantan Roy

Sayantan Roy is a seasoned tennis journalist at EssentiallyTennis. He brings a deep tactical understanding to his coverage, breaking down head-to-head records, match dynamics, and on-court strategies with precision. For more than two years, Sayantan has been a key member of the Live Events desk, delivering real-time insights and data-backed predictions for the platform’s Matchday Preview section. His analytical approach has sparked editorial debates and drawn recognition from respected tennis voices, including commentator and analyst Olly_Tennis. Combining his experience in writing with a passion for insightful sports journalism, Sayantan’s work serves as a trusted reference point for tennis fans around the world.

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