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Rule-Tweaked Sabalenka–Kyrgios Exhibition in Dubai Faces Tennis Backlash

Promoters use a 'Battle of the Sexes' label, with both players calling the event entertainment.

Overview

  • The exhibition is scheduled for Sunday in Dubai between women’s world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka and Nick Kyrgios, who is ranked No. 673.
  • Organizers plan to limit Kyrgios to one serve and shrink Sabalenka’s side of the court by 9% to balance play.
  • Former French pro Alizé Cornet condemned the altered rules as a poor look for women’s tennis and called the shortened court for Sabalenka absurd.
  • Billie Jean King emphasized that the event bears no resemblance to her 1973 match with Bobby Riggs, which she described as a political contest with social stakes.
  • Ex-player and commentator Rennae Stubbs questioned the event’s purpose, suggesting the shared agency Evolve is chiefly pursuing a payday.