This will be the Battle of the Sexes between Sabalenka and Kyrgios: genius or circus?

Carlos Navarro | 5 Nov 2025 | 21.13

Kyrgios will compete again to star in a new Battle of the Sexes against Sabalenka. Source: Getty

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The well-worn concept of the 'Battle of the Sexes' in the tennis world will come alive in just a month and a half, when Nick Kyrgios and Aryna Sabalenka take to the court at the Coca Cola Arena in Dubai for a new exhibition match. Yes, there are no doubles pairs or tricks: a three-set match (with the third set being a tiebreak to 10 points) where a woman and a man will clash to see who is stronger... albeit with certain peculiarities that promise to shake up the tennis ecosystem.

This is not the first time that the Battle of the Sexes makes its appearance in this sport. The concept was coined by Billie Jean King, an undisputed pioneer for women's rights in the world of tennis, when she faced Bobby Riggs, a 55-year-old retired player, in an exhibition match that drew over 30,000 spectators in Houston. The American's clear victory marked a seismic shift and a moment of change and reflection towards gender equality: what Aryna Sabalenka and Nick Kyrgios promise to showcase on December 28 seems unlikely to have the same impact.

These are two incomparable events: in terms of social and gender context, obviously, and in terms of the level of promotion and rules that will come into play. The agency representing both, Evolve, revealed some details today about an idea that Kyrgios himself hinted at months ago, which is now about to become reality. The showdown will take place on December 28 in Dubai and will have some peculiarities to even the playing field: the Australian will only be allowed one serve and the dimensions of Sabalenka's side of the court will be 9% smaller. Why? The organizers rely on scientific studies that suggest women move, on average, 9% slower than men. Two modifications and two personalities that pose the clear risk of turning a potential great occasion into a sort of circus act.

Sabalenka confident of beating Kyrgios: Will the Battle of the Sexes be a close contest?

And what do the main characters say in the meantime? Nick Kyrgios is not one to shy away from such challenges. The Australian is eager to assert his biological superiority and accepted this proposal enthusiastically: "When the world number one challenges you, you answer that call. I have endless respect for Aryna, she is a pillar of this sport and a true champion. However, I will never back down from a challenge, and I'm not just going to play, I'm going to entertain the audience," declared the Canberra native, exuding his usual confidence. Just a few months ago, on Alexander Bublik's podcast, he was even more direct: "She won't beat me. Do you really think I would need to give 100%? I'm all in because I represent the men. I think I will win 6-2."

Sabalenka, who shares representation agency with the Australian and has always had a great relationship with him, also reveals her excitement and confidence regarding her chances. "I truly believe I will win. I'm going out there and giving it my all to kick his butt. I have a lot of respect for Billie Jean King and what she has done for women's tennis, and I'm proud to represent women and be part of this iconic and modern Battle of the Sexes. I have a lot of respect for Nick and his talent, but I'm ready to show my best self."

December 28, Coca Cola Arena and a match that stems from a historic premise, but still raises many doubts. Will it truly be balanced? What level of commitment will Kyrgios show, being unable to compete professionally due to his wrist problems? Will there be competitive hints or will it turn into a forgettable show with little resemblance to the original match? Questions whose answers we will soon know.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Así será la Batalla de los Sexos entre Sabalenka y Kyrgios: ¿genialidad o circo?