Tennis fans slam 2025 ‘Battle of the Sexes’ after women’s world number one loses to male player

She lost in straight sets

Former Grand Slam finalist Kyrigos overcame the women's world number one in straight sets (6-3,6-3) to secure victory in Dubai.

Unlike Billie Jean King's legendary "Battle of the Sexes" match-up against Bobby Riggs in the 1970s, the 2025 edition made use of a few court alterations aimed at levelling out the playing field between male and female athletes.

Sabalenka's court was 9% smaller than the one played on by Kyrigios, and there were limits on serves.

Despite the spectacle of the exhibition match, organisers have come under criticism for the changes, and the overall quality of sport on display.

One tennis fan took to social media platform X to describe the match as a "farce."

Another user wrote: "The whole battle of the sexes situation was incredibly stupid but the worst part of it to me is Sabalenka allowing them to make her side of the court smaller."

What did Sabalenka and Kyrigos say about the match?

Kyrigios, who took 70 minutes to wrap up victory, described the match as "really tough," before adding, "she’s [Sabalenka's] a hell of a competitor and such a great champion, obviously a multiple grand slam champion.

“I didn’t know what to expect and what role I played – it was just another great opportunity.

“She broke my serve numerous times and I had to strap in.”

His competitor replied in tune, saying: "I think I put up a great fight and he was struggling, he got really tired.

“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.

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