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Top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka is set to challenge Nick Kyrgios in a ‘Battle of the Sexes’ match in the United Arab Emirates later this year.

The Belarusian Sabalenka, twenty-seven, and thirty-year-old Aussie Kyrgios – currently placed 652nd in the world – are set to compete at the Coca-Cola Arena on December 28.

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

Kyrgios, who peaked at world number 13 in 2016, has participated in just five games this year since recovering 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 talent, but make no mistake, I'm ready to bring my A-game," Sabalenka commented.

Historical Background of ‘Battle of the Sexes’

A trio of recognized contests known as the ‘Battle of the Sexes’ have occurred – most famously between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs in 1973.

US legend Riggs had beaten Australia's Margaret Court before King exacted revenge four months later.

In 1992, a 40-year-old Jimmy Connors overcame fellow multi-time Grand Slam champion Martina Navratilova, then thirty-five, under special rules.

"I deeply admire Billie Jean King and what she has achieved for the female tennis," Sabalenka added. "I'm proud to represent 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 championship match, expressed he will enjoy the chance to play against Sabalenka, with whom he has the same representative.

"Being challenged by the top player, you step up to the plate. I've got great admiration for Aryna; she's a force and a genuine winner," he remarked. "But I've never shied away from a challenge, and I'm not just here to play, I'm here to thrill the crowd. This is what I thrive on."

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

Tennis fans have been divided into two camps since talk of this exhibition began at the US Open in September.

Certain individuals believe it is a fun diversion which will effectively draw the eyeballs of a newer, younger audience in the age of digital media.

Others believe it is a misguided venture – organized by the Evolve agency which the players both share – and creates an opportunity for female athletics to be belittled if Sabalenka is defeated by Kyrgios.

The fact that Kyrgios admitted to attacking an former partner in 2023, then later had to distance himself from controversial influencer Andrew Tate in 2024, is a key factor why some critics believe this exhibition could unnecessarily fuel sexism and anti-women sentiment.

Sabalenka does not seem to be overly concerned the event will have a negative impact on female athletics. Speaking about the possibility at the US Open, she said it was a "cool idea" and chuckled as she pledged to "kick Nick's ass".

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

For Kyrgios, he remains in the spotlight despite his continued absence from the tour and constantly in the public eye which he has consistently shown he enjoys.

At this stage, specifics about the format of the match are still scarce – although serving restrictions and potential court modifications are believed to have been considered.