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World number one Aryna Sabalenka will face Nick Kyrgios in a ‘Battle of the Sexes’ match in the UAE later this year.

The Belarusian Sabalenka, 27, and thirty-year-old Australian Kyrgios – currently placed 652nd in the world – are scheduled to compete at the Coca-Cola Arena on December 28.

Four-time Grand Slam winner Sabalenka is the reigning Wimbledon and US Open champion.

Kyrgios, who peaked at world number 13 in 2016, has only played five matches this year since returning from a serious wrist injury that sidelined him for a year and a half.

He has been absent on the ATP Tour since losing in the Miami Open second round in March.

"I greatly admire Nick and his talent, but rest assured, I'm ready to bring my A-game," Sabalenka said.

Past Background of ‘Battle of the Sexes’

Three official matches known as the ‘Battle of the Sexes’ have taken place – most notably between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs in 1973.

US legend Riggs had beaten Australia's Margaret Court before King got payback four months later.

In 1992, a 40-year-old Jimmy Connors overcame fellow multiple Grand Slam champion Martina Navratilova, then thirty-five, under special rules.

"I have so much respect for Billie Jean King and what she has achieved for the female tennis," Sabalenka added. "I'm proud to represent women's tennis and to be part of this modern take of the legendary ‘Battle of the Sexes’ match."

Kyrgios, who reached the 2022 Wimbledon final, said he will relish the chance to play against Sabalenka, with whom he shares the same agent.

"Being challenged by the top player, you answer the call. I've got massive respect for Aryna; she's a force and a genuine winner," he said. "However I've never backed down from a challenge, and I'm not just here to play, I'm here to thrill the crowd. This is what I thrive on."

Fun Spectacle or Harmful to Women's Sport? – Analysis

Tennis fans have been divided into two camps since rumblings of this exhibition began at the US Open in September.

Some think it is a fun diversion which will effectively draw the attention of a newer, younger audience in the age of digital media.

Others believe it is a misguided venture – arranged by the Evolve management which the players both share – and sets up an opportunity for women's sport to be belittled if Sabalenka is beaten by Kyrgios.

The fact that Kyrgios pleaded guilty to attacking an ex-girlfriend in 2023, then later had to separate himself from divisive figure Andrew Tate in 2024, is a big reason why some critics believe this exhibition could unnecessarily fuel sexism and anti-women sentiment.

Sabalenka does not seem to be overly concerned the event will have a negative impact on female athletics. Speaking about the possibility at the US Open, she said it was a "interesting concept" and chuckled as she vowed to "kick Nick's ass".

It is difficult, however, to see what she benefits from the event – especially if she is defeated to a man who has not been in top form for a long time.

For Kyrgios, he manages to stay relevant despite his ongoing break from the tour and constantly in the public eye which he has repeatedly demonstrated he enjoys.

At this stage, details about the structure of the match are still scarce – although serving restrictions and potential court modifications are believed to have been discussed.