Aryna Sabalenka will play Nick Kyrgios in a modern-day ‘Battle of the Sexes’ match on Sunday, December 28, in Dubai.
When Kyrgios first mentioned the possible contest with Sabalenka earlier this year, excitement quickly grew.
The prospect of the world number one taking on a former Wimbledon finalist was always going to sell tickets.
With the date and venue now set, battle lines have been drawn between the pair.
Looking ahead to their exhibition clash, Sabalenka had a warning for the controversial Aussie star.
Aryna Sabalenka says she’s bringing her ‘A-game’ to beat Nick Kyrgios
The four-time Grand Slam champion had this to say about her upcoming ‘Battle of the Sexes’ match against Kyrgios, as reported by BBC Sport.
“I have a lot of respect for Nick [Kyrgios] and his talent, but make no mistake, I’m ready to bring my A-game,” said Sabalenka.
She then took a moment to reflect upon the history of ‘Battle of the Sexes’ matches.
“I have so much respect for Billie Jean King and what she has done for the women’s game,” said Sabalenka.
“I’m proud to represent women’s tennis and to be part of this modern take on the iconic ‘Battle of the Sexes’ match.”
Weighing in with his thoughts, Kyrgios said he’s never been one to back down from a challenge.
“When the world number one challenges you, you answer the call,” he said.
“I’ve got massive respect for Aryna [Sabalenka]; 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 pair exchanged further messages on social media, as hype around the event continues to build.
“Let’s get it, Saba [Sabalenka],” said Kyrgios.
“You better be ready,” replied Sabalenka.
Only time will tell who will emerge victorious in Dubai, but you certainly won’t want to miss any of the action when Sabalenka and Kyrgios face off on Sunday, December 28.
Who won the first ‘Battle of the Sexes’ match?
Back in 1973, Billie Jean King took on retired American pro, Bobby Riggs, in the inaugural ‘Battle of the Sexes’.
Earlier in ’73, Riggs had dominated another WTA legend, Margaret Court, 6-2, 6-1, in a match dubbed as the ‘Mother’s Day Massacre’.
Looking to avenge her former rival, King accepted Riggs’ challenge, with $100,000 on the line.
King didn’t start brilliantly, going behind an early break, but fought back to win the opening set 6-4.
Carrying that momentum forward, King won the second and third sets, 6-3, 6-3, to clinch the win against Riggs.
With over 50 million fans watching on TV, King proved that women can compete with men and earned herself $100,000 in the process.
Several other ‘Battle of the Sexes’ matches followed, although none garnered the media attention of King vs Riggs.
- Virginia Wade vs Bjorn Borg (1975)
- Evonne Goolagong Cawley vs Ilie Nastase (1975)
- Martina Navratilova vs Jimmy Connors (1992)
- Serena Williams vs Karsten Braasch (1998)
- Venus Williams vs Karsten Braasch (1998)
- Justine Henin vs Yannick Noah (2003)
- Johanna Konta vs Pat Cash (2017)
- Mirra Andreeva vs Yanis Ghazouani Durand (2023)
It remains to be seen if Sabalenka vs Kyrgios will prove to be as memorable as the original ‘Battle of the Sexes’ clash…
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