Aryna Sabalenka vs Nick Kyrgios: ‘Battle of the Sexes’ Exhibition Match in Dubai
On 28 December 2025, women’s world No.1 Aryna Sabalenka will face Australian star Nick Kyrgios in a special tennis exhibition match at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena. This event revives the iconic ‘Battle of the Sexes,’ a famous match between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs held over 50 years ago.
Event Background and Significance
The original 1973 “Battle of the Sexes” became a landmark moment for gender equality in sports when Billie Jean King defeated Bobby Riggs in front of 90 million viewers worldwide. This upcoming match marks the first similar event in over 30 years.
Sabalenka said she’s “ready to bring [her] A-game,” while Kyrgios vowed to “entertain” in a modern revival of tennis’s most famous gender face-off.
Players’ Form and Context
- Aryna Sabalenka, 27, is coming off a strong period, having won consecutive US Open women’s singles titles and the Madrid Open.
- Nick Kyrgios, 30, was the 2022 Wimbledon men’s singles finalist but is currently ranked 650 due to an 18-month wrist injury. Despite limited play this year with only five matches, he remains a captivating figure in tennis.
Match Details and Format
Organised by the players’ management agency Evolve, the exhibition will feature an unprecedented format for a ‘Battle of the Sexes’ event. While specific rules are yet to be confirmed, organisers are considering applying limits on serves and making potential court adjustments.
Key Facts
- Date: 28 December 2025
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai
- Organiser: Evolve management agency
- Significance: First such event in over three decades
Author’s summary: The upcoming Sabalenka vs Kyrgios tennis exhibition in Dubai rekindles the historic ‘Battle of the Sexes,’ blending strong current form and showmanship in a unique gender equality showcase.