World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka will take on Nick Kyrgios in a “Battle of the Sexes” exhibition on December 28 at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena — a modern tribute to the iconic 1973 match between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs.
By Narrator News Sports Desk | November 4, 2025 | 5 min read
Tennis fans are in for a year-end spectacle as world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka is set to face Australian star Nick Kyrgios in a special “Battle of the Sexes” exhibition match on December 28 at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena.
The indoor clash — which seats 17,000 spectators — is being hyped as one of the most entertaining tennis events of the year, blending competition, charisma, and nostalgia.
💥 A Modern Twist on a Classic Showdown
The match title pays homage to the legendary 1973 “Battle of the Sexes” between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs, where King famously triumphed in straight sets, marking a milestone moment in sports and gender equality.
Now, more than five decades later, Sabalenka and Kyrgios are ready to bring that same spirit to a new generation of fans — with their own playful, modern flair.
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🗓️ From Rumor to Reality
Sabalenka first hinted during the US Open that talks were underway for the exhibition, sparking excitement across the tennis community. On Tuesday, both players confirmed the match through coordinated social-media posts, revealing the official venue and date.
In a nod to balance, Kyrgios announced he’ll be limited to one serve per point and will hit toward a smaller half of the court, an adjustment designed to make the contest fairer and more entertaining.
🎙️ Kyrgios: “I Never Thought I’d Be Back in This Position”
The outspoken Australian, who has struggled with multiple injuries and played only a handful of matches in recent years, sounded rejuvenated about his comeback.
“I cannot wait to get back out on court,” Kyrgios said in an Instagram story. “Honestly, I’m feeling amazing. I never thought I would be back in this position — traveling the world, seeing my fans, and playing some amazing tennis.”
Despite his time away, Kyrgios remains confident, even predicting an easy win over Sabalenka — a bold claim that adds extra spice to the upcoming match.
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🌍 Double Duty in December
Before meeting in Dubai, both stars will headline another exhibition in New York on December 8 — though not against each other. Sabalenka will take on Naomi Osaka, while Kyrgios faces Tommy Paul, giving fans an early preview of their off-season form.
The pair’s December schedule underscores how both are embracing a lighter, fan-focused close to the 2025 tennis year.
🏆 Champions at Different Peaks
Sabalenka, a four-time Grand Slam champion, has dominated the women’s tour with her trademark power and mental toughness. Kyrgios, meanwhile, is best known for his electric shot-making and fiery personality, highlighted by his 2022 Wimbledon final appearance, where he fell to Novak Djokovic.
The contrast between Sabalenka’s discipline and Kyrgios’s unpredictability promises a compelling dynamic when they meet in Dubai.
🎟️ Anticipation Builds
With both players among tennis’s most magnetic personalities, the Battle of the Sexes 2025 is shaping up to be more than just an exhibition — it’s a celebration of skill, showmanship, and sporting equality.
Tickets are expected to sell out quickly, as fans look forward to seeing two of the sport’s most captivating figures share the same court in one of the final tennis spectacles of the year.