Top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka and former Wimbledon finalist Nick Kyrgios are set to face off in an exhibition match dubbed the “Battle of the Sexes” in Dubai on December 28. The match, which was confirmed by Sabalenka during the U.S. Open, will take place indoors at the 17,000-seat Coca-Cola Arena. Kyrgios announced that he will have only one serve and will aim towards a smaller side of the court, expressing confidence in an easy win despite his limited recent playing time due to injuries.
In addition to the Dubai exhibition, both players will also participate in a separate event in New York on December 8. Sabalenka will compete against Naomi Osaka, while Kyrgios will take on Tommy Paul. Kyrgios expressed his excitement to return to the court, sharing on Instagram that he is feeling great and grateful for the opportunity to travel, connect with fans, and showcase his tennis skills.
The inspiration for the Sabalenka-Kyrgios exhibition match comes from the historic 1973 match between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs, where King emerged victorious in straight sets at the Houston Astrodome. Sabalenka, a four-time Grand Slam champion, will bring her formidable skills to the match, while Kyrgios, who lost to Novak Djokovic in the 2022 Wimbledon final, is eager to showcase his talents in this unique showdown.