Nick Kyrgios and Aryna Sabalenka’s high-profile Battle of the Sexes match provided the perfect preparation for both stars 2026 campaigns.
Kyrgios came out on top, beating Sabalenka in straight sets, but there was little on show to excite fans or silence critics of the concept.
Sabalenka went down 6-3, 6-3 in a match that struggled to find any real rhythm and lacked moments of genuine quality.
The two stars will be back in action very quickly as they both gear up for the same tournament in Australia.
Nick Kyrgios and Aryna Sabalenka confirmed for the Brisbane International
Kyrgios and Sabalenka are both scheduled to play at the upcoming Brisbane International, marking another appearance together at a major event.
Kyrgios has received a wild card entry into the singles draw of the tournament, which runs from 4-11 January.
He won the tournament in 2018 after defeating Ryan Harrison in the final, and will be looking to put in another strong showing this year.
Kyrgios will also be back in doubles action, teaming up once again with Thanasi Kokkinakis after both players returned from injury layoffs.
The pair famously won the Australian Open doubles title in 2022, and fans will be eager to see if they can recapture some of that old form.
On the women’s side, Sabalenka is set to compete as well. The world number one returns as defending champion after her victory over Polina Kudermetova last year.
Nick Kyrgios’ Australian Open wild card status
Kyrgios may have been granted a wild card for the Brisbane International, but he’s yet to secure one for the Australian Open.
So far, players like Rinky Hijikata, Priscilla Hon, and James Duckworth have already been handed direct entries into the main draw.
Mark Philippoussis has openly questioned whether Kyrgios deserves a spot, and his performance in the Battle of the Sexes won’t have helped his case with tournament organisers.
A strong showing in Brisbane may be necessary for him to earn a place at his home Grand Slam.
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