Date for 'Battle of Sexes' match between Aryna Sabalenka and Nick Kyrgios confirmed
NewsTuesday, 04 November 2025 at 16:45
One of the most infamous concepts in tennis history will be revived when Aryna Sabalenka and Nick Kyrgios face off next month.
On May 13th, 1973, Bobby Riggs and Margaret Court played in a 'battle of the sexes' match. Riggs easily defeated the 24-time Grand Slam singles champion and taunted about the standard of women's tennis afterward.
Billie Jean King faced Riggs on September 20th, 1973, in what remains one of the most high-profile matches ever played. The six-time Wimbledon singles champion won 6-4, 6-3, 6-3, which helped to bring women's tennis into the mainstream.
The other notable battle of the sexes contest occurred between Martina Navratilova and Jimmy Connors in September 1992. Connors triumphed 7-5, 6-2 after a nervy performance from both players.
Since Connors is only four years older than Navratilova, the rules were modified in their match. Navratilova was allowed to hit into half the doubles alleys, and her ATP counterpart was only allowed one serve.
Sabalenka and Kyrgios have mentioned the possibility of reviving the concept throughout the year. However, in their previous comments, neither was sure when or where it would be held.
That speculation is now over. Sabalenka and Kyrgios will play at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai on December 28th. In a statement accompanying the news, this year's US Open women's singles champion outlined her excitement.
"I have a lot of respect for Nick and his talent, but make no mistake, I'm ready to bring my A-game. 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."
Kyrgios also commented on the planned match. The Australian said he did not want to back down from the challenge and was looking forward to entertaining the fans in Dubai and those watching worldwide.
"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."
Although the pair are both represented by Evolve Agency and share a good relationship, the pair have already engaged in some public words. In an interview with Alexander Bublik, Kyrgios claimed he would not need to try at 100% to win.
When asked about the match and Kyrgios's comments, Sabalenka responded that she would work hard to kick his ass. The WTA world No. 1's absolute belief in herself was evident from those remarks.
Kyrgios has previously said the rules will be altered in a similar way to Connors and Navratilova's match. The 2022 Wimbledon men's singles runner-up may only get one serve, and the court dimensions will likely be altered somehow.
Opinions differ about whether the match is positive or if it could demean women's tennis. The effect it has will only be apparent when the event on December 28th is completed.
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