Their confidence led to a unique challenge from Karsten Braasch, who was ranked 203rd at the time. Known for his unconventional training methods—including a fondness for cigarettes and a few bottles of lager—Braasch accepted the challenge during the Australian Open's "Battle of the Sexes."
The matches were eye-opening: Braasch won against Serena 6–1 and then against Venus 6–2.
This encounter sparked debates about gender and athletic prowess, highlighting how even seasoned professionals can have surprising outcomes.