🔗 Share this article

Top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka is set to challenge Nick Kyrgios in a ‘Battle of the Sexes’ event in the United Arab Emirates in December.

The Belarusian Sabalenka, 27, and 30-year-old Aussie Kyrgios – ranked 652nd in the world – are scheduled to compete at the Dubai venue on 28 December.

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

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

He has been absent on the ATP Tour since exiting in the Miami Open early stage in March.

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

Past Background of Gender Showdowns

A trio of recognized contests labeled as the ‘Battle of the Sexes’ have taken place – most notably between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs in 1973.

American veteran Riggs had defeated 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 thirty-five, under hybrid rules.

"I deeply admire Billie Jean King and what she has achieved 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, expressed 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 genuine winner," he remarked. "But I've never backed down from a challenge, and I'm not just here to play, I'm here to entertain. This is what I thrive on."

Harmless Entertainment or Harmful to Women's Sport? – Analysis

Tennis fans have been divided into opposing sides since talk of this exhibition started at the US Open in September.

Certain individuals believe it is a fun diversion which will effectively draw the attention of a younger demographic in the age of digital media.

Others believe it is a ill-advised project – arranged by the Evolve management which the players both share – and sets up an opportunity for women's sport to be belittled if Sabalenka is beaten by Kyrgios.

The fact that Kyrgios pleaded guilty to attacking an ex-girlfriend in 2023, then later had to separate himself from controversial influencer Andrew Tate in 2024, is a key factor why some critics believe this exhibition could provoke gender bias 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 possibility at the US Open, she said it was a "cool idea" and chuckled as she vowed to "kick Nick's ass".

It is difficult, however, to see what she benefits from the event – especially if she is defeated to a man who has not been fit for a long time.

For Kyrgios, he manages to stay relevant despite his continued absence from the tour and constantly in the public eye which he has repeatedly demonstrated he loves to be in.

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