Aryna Sabalenka wasted little time asking for a rematch after losing to Nick Kyrgios in the latest Battle of the Sexes showdown.
Kyrgios came out on top in straight sets, but the event drew plenty of criticism from both fans and pundits before and after it took place.
Sabalenka stood by her decision to play and even said she’d be open to another go at Kyrgios. And now, she’s floated another rule change if they were to meet again.
Sabalenka calls for format change ahead of potential Kyrgios rematch
During the Battle of the Sexes, Sabalenka played on a reduced section of the court, with both players limited to just one serve per point.
The top-ranked player seemed to have trouble with the single-serve rule, and that’s one thing she hopes will be different if they play again.
Speaking ahead of the Brisbane International, Sabalenka said: “For the next match, we’ll come up with a different format.
“I think I would keep the full court for Nick, but I would take two serves. I think that would even our level a bit more.”
The new rules were meant to balance things out, but many analysts felt they actually held Sabalenka back more than expected.
Nick Kyrgios responds to Aryna Sabalenka’s rematch claims
Kyrgios has already addressed Sabalenka’s proposed rule changes, while also taking a subtle jab at tennis journalist Ben Rothenberg.
The two have had their differences in the past, with Kyrgios often vocal about his criticisms of Rothenberg’s work within the sport.
Rothenberg dismissed the idea of a rematch after hearing Sabalenka’s suggestions, which led to a quick reply from Kyrgios.
Kyrgios took to X, posting “I’M IN” in all caps in response to the possibility of another high-profile meeting with Sabalenka.
It seems another Battle of the Sexes between Kyrgios and Sabalenka could be on the horizon, regardless of whether fans are eager for it or not.
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