Top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka will face former Wimbledon finalist Nick Kyrgios in a “Battle of the Sexes” exhibition match on December 28 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
After Sabalenka confirmed during the US Open that talks were underway for the match, both players posted logistical details on their social media channels on Tuesday.
They will play indoors at the 17,000-seat Coca-Cola Arena.
Kyrgios said he will only serve once this year and will hit it towards the smaller side of the court. The Australian, who has barely played in recent years due to injury, expects an easy win.
Both players will also participate in an exhibition in New York on December 8th, but they will not face each other. Sabalenka will face Naomi Osaka, while Kyrgios will face Tommy Paul.
“Can’t wait to get back on court,” Kyrgios said on his Instagram Story. “Honestly, it feels great. I never expected to be back in this position, traveling the world, meeting fans and playing great tennis.”
The Sabalenka vs. Kyrgios exhibition borrows its name from the 1973 match between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs at the Houston Astrodome, which King won in straight sets.
Sabalenka is a four-time Grand Slam champion.
Kyrgios lost to Novak Djokovic in the 2022 Wimbledon final.
