🔗 Share this article

Top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka will take on Nick Kyrgios in a ‘Battle of the Sexes’ event in the United Arab Emirates later this year.

Belarus' Sabalenka, 27, and thirty-year-old Aussie Kyrgios – currently placed 652nd in the world – are set to compete at the Dubai venue on December 28.

Four-times Grand Slam winner Sabalenka is the reigning Wimbledon and US Open champion.

Kyrgios, who peaked at world number 13 in 2016, has participated in just five games this year since returning from a significant wrist injury that kept him out for 18 months.

He has not played on the ATP Tour since losing in the Miami Open second round in March.

"I greatly admire Nick and his talent, but rest assured, I'm prepared to bring my A-game," Sabalenka commented.

Historical Background of ‘Battle of the Sexes’

Three official matches known as the ‘Battle of the Sexes’ have occurred – most notably between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs in 1973.

US legend Riggs had beaten Australia's Margaret Court before King exacted revenge four months later.

In 1992, a 40-year-old Jimmy Connors beat fellow multi-time Grand Slam champion Martina Navratilova, then 35, under hybrid rules.

"I deeply admire Billie Jean King and what she has done for the female tennis," Sabalenka continued. "It's an honor to stand for women's tennis and to be part of this contemporary version of the iconic ‘Battle of the Sexes’ match."

Kyrgios, who made it to the 2022 Wimbledon final, said he will enjoy the chance to play against Sabalenka, with whom he shares the same agent.

"When the world number one challenges you, you answer the call. I've got massive respect for Aryna; she's a powerhouse and a true champion," he said. "But I've never shied away from a challenge, and I'm not just here to play, I'm here to thrill the crowd. This is what I live for."

Harmless Entertainment or Damaging to Women's Sport? – Viewpoint

Followers of the sport have been split into opposing sides since talk of this exhibition began at the US Open in September.

Some think it is a bit of harmless entertainment which will successfully attract the attention of a newer, younger audience in the age of digital media.

Another group feels it is a misguided venture – arranged by the Evolve agency which the players both share – and sets up an opportunity for women's sport to be undermined if Sabalenka is defeated by Kyrgios.

The fact that Kyrgios admitted to attacking an ex-girlfriend in 2023, then later had to distance himself from controversial influencer Andrew Tate in 2024, is a key factor why some critics believe this exhibition could unnecessarily fuel sexism and anti-women sentiment.

Sabalenka does not seem to be too worried the event will have a negative impact on women's sports. Speaking about the idea at the US Open, she said it was a "interesting concept" and chuckled as she pledged to "kick Nick's ass".

It is hard, however, to see what she benefits from the event – particularly if she loses to a man who has not been in top form for a considerable period.

For Kyrgios, he remains in the spotlight despite his continued absence from the tour and firmly in the spotlight which he has repeatedly demonstrated he enjoys.

At this point, details about the format of the match are still limited – although rules on serves and potential court modifications are believed to have been discussed.