The upcoming ‘Battle of the Sexes’ exhibition featuring WTA World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka against Australian star Nick Kyrgios has sparked widespread debate. Many have questioned the premise of the December 28 event, and Serena Williams’ former coach Rennae Stubbs has joined the chorus of criticism. The Australian veteran dismissed the concept as a “joke,” arguing that it is nothing more than a money-making venture for the management company, ‘Evolve.’
Rennae Stubbs Opens Up on Aryna Sabalenka and Nick Kyrgios’ Match at Naomi Osaka’s ‘Battle of Sexes’
The highly anticipated showdown is scheduled for December 28 on the indoor hard courts of Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena. The event is being staged by Naomi Osaka’s management agency, Evolve, the same company that took over Sabalenka’s representation in January 2025 following her split with IMG, and has been overseeing Kyrgios’ career since 2022.
Kyrgios continues to navigate a difficult stretch, plagued by recurring injuries, having last appeared in a doubles match at the Mubadala Citi DC Open in July. Sabalenka, on the other hand, is currently competing at the season-ending WTA Finals and has already booked her place in the semifinals. Despite their contrasting situations, both stars will also be preparing for their first-ever meeting at the Battle of the Sexes.
Stubbs, however, has made it clear she is not in favor of the exhibition. She pointed to the historic 1973 ‘Battle of the Sexes’ between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs, which drew a global audience of 90 million and played a pivotal role in championing women’s sport. In her view, the Sabalenka–Kyrgios matchup carries no such purpose and is driven purely by ticket sales and commercial gain rather than any effort to support women’s tennis.
“The 150 years ago was important, when it was women trying to fight for equality and women’s rights in the United States. That’s when it was important. When we had 50,000 or 80,000 plus people in the Metrodome in Houston watching it, and the whole country watching it. No one gives a f**k about what’s happening with Aryna Sabalenka and Nick Kyrgios,” she said.
“I mean, the only reason they’re putting this on is because it is literally their company, Evolve, who’s their management company, is going, we’re going to make a bit of money here. This will be good. Get it on TV. Sell a few tickets. But what is in this for women’s tennis?” the Aussie added.
Stubbs further argued that Kyrgios would easily win unless he is severely injured, saying male players have a natural advantage. The Aussie also questioned the seriousness of the match and suggested it might turn into a spectacle rather than real competition.
“And Nick Kyrgios, unless he’s hurt, like really hurt and can’t run at all, he is going to win this match so easily. It’s just a fact, male tennis players, especially someone as good as Nick Kyrgios, if he’s playing at 50%, he’s going to win that match. And it just doesn’t make sense to me. Is Sabalenka going to be serious? Is it going to be like a joke?,” she questioned.
Stubbs may view Kyrgios as the clear favorite, but the Australian has logged only five singles matches this season and owns just one win. As the exhibition draws closer, the real intrigue lies in which star will rise to the occasion.
MORE: Former Serena Williams Coach Makes Feelings Clear on Aryna Sabalenka-Nick Kyrgios Battle of the Sexes Match With Hard-Hitting Statement
AloJapan.com