Nick Kyrgios and Aryna Sabalenka are gearing up for a high-profile exhibition match in Dubai, dubbed the “Battle of the Sexes,” set for December 28, 2025. The event rekindles memories of the legendary match between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs in 1973, which King won decisively.
Kyrgios, a figure well-known for both his talent and controversies, expressed a blend of excitement and trepidation regarding the upcoming showdown. He acknowledged the expectations placed upon him as a representative of male players. “I recently chatted with several male athletes who emphasized that I’m carrying the flag for us,” Kyrgios remarked to the Australian Associated Press. “I’ve faced media scrutiny before, but I’m eager to embrace whatever comes from this match.”
In his preparation, Kyrgios noted the challenge posed by the dynamics of the exhibition format, stating that he would be targeting a slightly smaller area of the court than Sabalenka, which could affect his ability to execute powerful shots. He also mentioned the importance of respecting Sabalenka’s skillset, recognizing her as a top-tier competitor. “She could easily be one of the greatest female players in tennis history, and I believe she’ll capture multiple Grand Slam titles in her career.”
Both players will also appear in a separate exhibition in New York on December 8, where Sabalenka will face Naomi Osaka and Kyrgios will compete against Tommy Paul. This will serve as a warm-up for their much-anticipated clash in Dubai.
Despite being constrained by injuries that limited him to just six official matches over the past three years, Kyrgios remains confident about his performance, insisting he feels fit and ready. Currently ranked No. 652 in the world, he acknowledged the uphill battle he faces but highlighted his track record against elite players, having been one of the few to defeat legends like Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, and Andy Murray.
“Confidence is key,” Kyrgios explained. “There are only a handful of players who have managed to best the Big Four, and I’m among them.” He continued to stress the gravity of the moment: “I know that this match carries a lot of weight, not just for me but for the sport as a whole.”
As the date approaches, the excitement surrounding this exhibition match continues to build, promising an engaging display of tennis that crosses traditional boundaries. With Kyrgios and Sabalenka both poised for what could be a remarkable encounter, tennis fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating the return of live action and the intriguing narratives woven around it.
