Swiatek Dismisses ‘Battle of the Sexes’, Says Women’s Tennis Has Nothing to Prove

ISLAMABAD: Six-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek on Saturday said she sees little value in modern “Battle of the Sexes” matches, insisting that women’s tennis no longer needs comparisons with the men’s game.

Her comments came after a highly publicised exhibition match in Dubai last week, where world number one Aryna Sabalenka faced Australian Nick Kyrgios. Kyrgios won the contest 6-3, 6-3, with Sabalenka’s side of the court reduced in size in an attempt to offset Kyrgios’ power advantage.

Speaking in Sydney ahead of her season opener at the United Cup, Swiatek said she did not watch the match and viewed it purely as entertainment rather than a meaningful sporting or social statement. She added that the exhibition bore little resemblance to the historic 1973 encounter between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs, which played a crucial role in advancing women’s tennis.

Swiatek stressed that women’s tennis now stands firmly on its own, with strong athletes and compelling stories that do not require comparison with men’s tennis. “Honestly, there doesn’t need to be any competition,” she said.

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The Polish star, who is preparing for the Australian Open later this month — the only Grand Slam title she has yet to win — said mixed-team events like the United Cup better celebrate the sport. She noted that such tournaments bring together fans of both the ATP and WTA and create excitement by allowing players to compete in mixed doubles alongside singles matches.

The United Cup features ties consisting of one men’s singles, one women’s singles and a mixed doubles match, with top teams advancing to the knockout stage.

Meanwhile, Sabalenka defended her participation in the exhibition match, saying tennis needs to stay fresh and entertaining. She added that she would be open to playing again, hinting at a desire for a rematch.