Greek Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios will return to the court on December 28 to face world No.1 Aryna Sabalenka in a “Battle of the Sexes” exhibition match in Dubai, organisers confirmed on Tuesday, November 4.
The event evokes the historic 1973 clash between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs, a defining moment in the fight for gender equality in sport.
“When the World No.1 challenges you, you answer the call,” said Kyrgios, 30, who has not played since March and is currently ranked 652nd.
“I’ve got massive respect for Aryna; 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. Dubai, get ready for a show.”
According to The Daily Telegraph, Sabalenka, competing this week at the WTA Finals in Riyadh, said she was honoured to follow in King’s footsteps.
“I have so much respect for Billie Jean King and what she has done for the women’s game,” the four-time Grand Slam champion said.
“I’m proud to represent women’s tennis and to be part of this modern take of the iconic Battle of the Sexes match.”
She added with confidence, “Make no mistake, I’m ready to bring my A-game.”
The fiery exhibition was first sparked when Kyrgios claimed during the US Open in September that he could easily defeat Sabalenka, setting up one of the most talked-about tennis showdowns of the year.
Source: Daily Telegraph.
