India, Dec. 29 -- Nick Kyrgios beat Aryna Sabalenka 6-3, 6-3 on Sunday in a much-hyped "Battle of the Sexes" exhibition match at Dubai's Coca-Cola Arena. However, what was billed as a modern sequel to Billie Jean King's iconic win over Bobby Riggs more than 50 years ago drew sharp criticism from fans on social media, who questioned both its relevance and overall spectacle.

Much of the backlash centred on the rule changes introduced for the match, which had been announced well in advance. In an attempt to level the contest, organisers Evolve reduced Sabalenka's side of the court by nine per cent and limited players to just one serve per point instead of two.

Several fans felt the contest was skewed from the outset, particularly given Sab...