Top-seeded Aryna Sabalenka and former Wimbledon runner-up Nick Kyrgios are set to face off in a special exhibition match dubbed the “Battle of the Sexes” in Dubai on December 28. Confirming earlier speculations during the U.S. Open, both athletes took to their social media platforms to share the logistical information for the event, which will be held indoors at the 17,000-capacity Coca-Cola Arena.
Kyrgios revealed that he will have only one serve and will be aiming at a reduced section of the court for the match. Despite his limited recent playing time due to injuries, the Australian expressed confidence in his victory prospects.
In addition to their Dubai showdown, Sabalenka and Kyrgios are scheduled to participate in an exhibition event in New York on December 8. However, they will not be facing each other on that occasion, as Sabalenka will compete against Naomi Osaka while Kyrgios will take on Tommy Paul.
Anticipating his return to the court, Kyrgios expressed his excitement in an Instagram post, highlighting his gratitude for the opportunity to travel, engage with fans, and showcase his tennis skills.
The exhibition match between Sabalenka and Kyrgios pays homage to the historic 1973 encounter between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs, where King emerged victorious in straight sets at the Houston Astrodome. Sabalenka boasts an impressive record as a four-time Grand Slam winner, while Kyrgios notably finished as the runner-up in the 2022 Wimbledon final against Novak Djokovic.