World number one Aryna Sabalenka is set to face Australian star Nick Kyrgios in a high-profile ‘Battle of the Sexes’ exhibition match at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai on 28 December 2025. The event has generated significant buzz in the tennis world as fans anticipate a modern twist on the iconic historic matches.

Sabalenka vs Kyrgios: Match Overview

Belarusian Sabalenka, 27, is the reigning US Open champion and has enjoyed a stellar 2025 season. Kyrgios, 30, currently ranked 652nd, has only played five matches this year following a serious wrist injury that sidelined him for 18 months. He has not competed on the ATP Tour since losing in the second round of the Miami Open in March.

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

Kyrgios added:
“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.”

Historical Context: ‘Battle of the Sexes’

This exhibition continues a legacy of three official ‘Battle of the Sexes’ matches in tennis history:

• 1973: Billie Jean King defeated Bobby Riggs, after Riggs had beaten Margaret Court.
• 1992: Jimmy Connors, 40, defeated Martina Navratilova, 35, under hybrid rules.

Sabalenka acknowledged the historical significance:
“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.”

Public Debate and Controversy

The announcement has divided tennis fans. Some view it as harmless entertainment that could attract a younger audience through social media engagement. Others argue that the exhibition could undermine women’s sports, especially if Sabalenka loses to a man returning from a long injury hiatus.

Concerns are amplified by Kyrgios’ past controversies, including a 2023 guilty plea for assaulting an ex-girlfriend and distancing himself from controversial figures in 2024.

Despite this, Sabalenka remains unfazed, joking at the US Open about “kicking Nick’s ass” and calling the match a “cool idea.”

Match Format and Expectations

While specific match rules remain undisclosed, reports suggest potential serving restrictions and court modifications could be implemented to balance competition. Both players are represented by the Evolve agency, which is organizing the event.

The exhibition offers Sabalenka a financial reward and profile boost while giving Kyrgios a chance to stay relevant in the public eye despite limited tour appearances this year.

Fans worldwide will be watching closely as this modern ‘Battle of the Sexes’ promises to combine entertainment, high-level tennis, and media spectacle.