World number one Aryna Sabalenka will take on Australian star Nick Kyrgios in a much-anticipated “Battle of the Sexes” match at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai on 28 December.

The Belarusian, 27, is enjoying one of the best years of her career, having claimed her fourth Grand Slam title at the US Open, while 30-year-old Kyrgios—currently ranked 652 in the world—has only played five matches this season following an 18-month layoff with a serious wrist injury.

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

Kyrgios, who last appeared on the ATP Tour at the Miami Open in March, welcomed the challenge.

“When the world number one calls you out, you step up,” he said. “Aryna’s an incredible athlete and a powerhouse, but I’m not just here to play—I’m here to entertain. This is what I live for.”

A Modern Take on a Historic Rivalry

The event echoes previous “Battle of the Sexes” matches, most famously the 1973 showdown between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs, which became a landmark moment for gender equality in sport. Later editions included Jimmy Connors defeating Martina Navratilova in 1992 under modified rules.

Sabalenka said she’s proud to follow in King’s footsteps:

“I have so much respect for Billie Jean King and everything she did for women’s tennis. I’m honoured to represent the women’s game in this modern version of an iconic event.”

Debate Over Impact on Women’s Sport

The announcement has sparked divided opinions among fans and commentators. Some see it as fun, light-hearted entertainment that could attract new audiences. Others view it as a risky publicity stunt that might undermine women’s tennis if Sabalenka loses to a lower-ranked, out-of-form Kyrgios.

Critics have also pointed to Kyrgios’ off-court controversies—including a 2023 guilty plea for assaulting an ex-girlfriend and his previous association with influencer Andrew Tate—as reasons why the event might attract negative attention.

Still, Sabalenka has shrugged off concerns. Speaking at the US Open, she laughed and said she thought the idea was “cool,” adding she plans to “kick Nick’s ass.”

While details of the match format remain unclear, organisers are reportedly exploring serving limitations and court adjustments to create a more balanced contest.

For Sabalenka, the event offers a lucrative and high-profile end to her stellar season. For Kyrgios, it’s a chance to reignite fan interest and return to the spotlight he’s long thrived in.