Sabalenka's "Battle of the Sexes" Prep Pays Off in Brisbane Rout
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka opened her Brisbane International title defense with a statement victory, overwhelming Cristina Bucșa 6-0, 6-1 on Tuesday. In a post-match reflection, she credited a recent, unconventional preparation tool: her "Battle of the Sexes" exhibition match against Nick Kyrgios in Dubai last month.
Despite drawing some criticism, Sabalenka staunchly defended the exhibition's value. "It was fun. It was a great challenge," she said. "I think we brought so many eyes on tennis." More importantly, she highlighted its practical benefit for her game, noting the different intensity and movement required against a male opponent, especially one like Kyrgios who employs varied tactics. "It was a great, great fitness for me," Sabalenka concluded.
The focused preparation appears effective as she aims to reclaim her dominant form in Australia. The two-time Australian Open champion (2023, 2024) saw a 20-match winning streak at Melbourne Park end in last year's final against Madison Keys—a potential quarterfinal opponent she could face later this week in Brisbane.
Kyrgios's Rocky Return Contrasts with Successful Comebacks
The exhibition's benefits were not mutual. Nick Kyrgios, competing in his first ATP match since March due to a string of injuries, fell 6-3, 6-4 to Aleksandar Kovacevic. The former Wimbledon finalist, now ranked outside the top 150 after playing just six matches in three years, stated his intention to enter Australian Open qualifying if he does not receive a wild card.
Other players enjoyed more successful returns. Former Brisbane champion Grigor Dimitrov, playing his first match since October, secured a straightforward 6-3, 6-2 win over Pablo Carreño Busta. "I am just grateful," Dimitrov said. "My body had so much to go through, but just to be able to compete again today it is already a success."
Seeds Tumble as Early Rounds Conclude
The day featured significant upsets, particularly in the men's draw. Fourth-seeded American Tommy Paul was ousted in a tight three-set battle against the big-serving Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, who fired 24 aces. Seeds Alejandro Davidovich Fokina and Denis Shapovalov also made early exits. Seventh seed Cameron Norrie narrowly avoided joining them, saving three match points to defeat Ugo Humbert.
In the women's draw, all eyes remain on the looming clash between the tournament's top contenders. Defending Australian Open champion Madison Keys advanced smoothly, setting the stage for her potential meeting with Sabalenka—a rematch of last year's Grand Slam final that would provide an early-season blockbuster.
