Nick Kyrgios and Aryna Sabalenka’s high-profile Battle of the Sexes match provided the perfect preparation for both stars 2026 campaigns.
Kyrgios and Sabalenka’s match was criticised as the Australian defeated his female counterpart in straight sets.
Sabalenka lost 6-3, 6-3 to Kyrgios in a match which showed little signs of true quality and really failed to get going for most of its run-time.
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 are both set for the Brisbane International
The two stars will be sharing the same court yet again as they both are set to appear at the Brisbane International.
Kyrgios has been awarded a wild card for one of his home events, which takes place between 4-11 January.
The Australian star has previous success at the tournament, having lifted the trophy at the event back in 2018 after beating Ryan Harrison at the event.
Kyrgios has also been awarded a wild card for the doubles, where he will once again team with Thanasi Kokkinakis.
The pair won the Australian Open doubles in 2022, but both are now returning to the format after recovering from injury.
As for Sabalenka, the world number one has also been confirmed for the women’s singles event in Brisbane.
The Belarusian star won the event in 2025, when she beat Polina Kudermetova, and she will be defending her title.
Will Nick Kyrgios receive an Australian Open wild card?
Kyrgios might have been given the opportunity to play the Brisbane International, but he has not yet received a wild card for the Australian Open.
Who do you think should receive a wild card for the 2026 Australian Open?
The likes of Rinky Hijikata, Priscilla Hon, and James Duckworth have been given instant access to the Australian Open main draw thus far.
Mark Philippoussis has expressed doubt about Kyrgios’ wild card, while his fatigue during the Battle of the Sexes will do him no favours with the Grand Slam organisers.
Kyrgios will likely have to perform well at the Brisbane International in order to gain access to his home Grand Slam.
