Swiatek says women’s tennis does not need ‘Battle of the Sexes’

LONDON: Wimbledon champion Iga Swiatek has described the recent ‘Battle of the Sexes’ exhibition between Aryna Sabalenka and Nick Kyrgios as entertaining, but not socially transformative, emphasising that the women’s game ‘stands on its own’.

The exhibition, held last week in Dubai, saw Kyrgios, a male player, defeat Sabalenka, the world number one, in straight sets. The match was played on a modified court designed to create a more even playing field. Swiatek, who is currently ranked world number two, said she had not watched the match and prefers not to follow such events. “I haven’t watched [Sabalenka v Kyrgios] because I don’t watch stuff like that,” she said.

“I think for sure it attracted a lot of attention. It was entertainment, but I wouldn’t say it had anything to do with social change or important topics. “The name was clearly inspired by the Billie Jean King match in 1973, but beyond that, there are no real similarities. Women’s tennis stands on its own right now. We have so many great athletes and stories to present, we don’t need to compare ourselves to men’s tennis. Honestly, there doesn’t need to be any competition.”

Swiatek added that events like the mixed-team United Cup, which began in Australia on Friday, are a better way to celebrate both men’s and women’s tennis. “Events like the United Cup bring tennis together, allowing WTA and ATP fans to enjoy it with real excitement,” she said. “Seeing singles players who usually don’t have the chance to play mixed doubles together, taking part in matches like this, is what makes our sport much more interesting and better.” Web Desk