Aryna Sabalenka and Nick Kyrgios will go head-to-head in the ‘Battle of the Sexes’ at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai on December 28.
Kyrgios was out for 18 months due to a serious wrist injury, and he has been able to play five matches this year. Sabalenka has won two titles so far this year, Wimbledon and the US Open.
The original “Battle of the Sexes” took place in 1973, when Billie Jean King defeated Bobby Riggs. Sabalenka shared her thoughts on this special event and how it impacted her tennis career.
“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 on the iconic ‘Battle of the Sexes’ match.”
Ranked 652nd in the world, 30-year-old Kyrgios described Aryna as a powerhouse, and he would not miss this match for the world.
“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.”
The ‘Battle of the Sexes’ tennis event is organised by the pair’s shared management agency, Evolve, and the event has been around for over three decades.
