2025-11-04 11:41:25

Aryna Sabalenka will take on Nick Kyrgios in a ‘Battle of the Sexes’ exhibition match.

The women’s world number one will take on the former Wimbledon finalist – who has dropped outside the world’s top 500 after a series of injury problems – at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai on December 28.

Sabalenka said: “I have a lot of respect for Nick and his talent, but make no mistake, I’m ready to bring my A-game.”

It will be the latest ‘Battle of the Sexes’ clash – the most famous of which occurred in 1973 when Billie Jean King defeated Bobby Riggs in straight sets – exacting revenge for Margaret Court’s defeat to the same opponent earlier that year.

Meanwhile, Jimmy Connors beat fellow Grand Slam champion Martina Navratilova in straight sets in a match played under hybrid rules in 1992.

US Open champion Sabalenka added: “I have so much respect for Billie Jean King and what she has done for the women’s game.

“I’m proud to represent women’s tennis and to be part of this modern take of the iconic ‘Battle of the Sexes’ match.”

Kyrgios is looking forward to testing himself against four-time major champion Sabalenka.

The Australian star said: “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.

“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 live for.”

Sabalenka suggested at the US Open earlier this year that she would prevail in a match against Kyrgios.

The Belarusian ace said: “I think it’s a cool idea and will be spectacular to watch.

“It’s going to be fun, especially against someone like Nick.

“Like he said in another interview, I genuinely think that I’m going to win and I’ll definitely go out there and I’ll try my best to kick his a**.

“It’s gonna be good thing if I’ll be able to beat him, but for now, we are not sure about the place.

“But definitely if we’re going to bring it, we’re going to bring it to somewhere where it’s going to be a lot of people watching, and we’re gonna put a lot of pressure on Nick.”

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