A highly anticipated and controversial 'Battle of the Sexes' tennis exhibition is set to take place in Dubai, pitting women's world number one Aryna Sabalenka against former Wimbledon finalist Nick Kyrgios. The match, scheduled for Sunday, December 28, will feature two significant rule alterations designed to create a more competitive spectacle.
Controversial Rule Changes Aim to Level the Court
The organisers, Evolve, have introduced two major departures from standard tennis rules. The most visually striking change will see Sabalenka's side of the court reduced in size by nine per cent. This decision is based on data from the organisers claiming female players are, on average, nine per cent slower than their male counterparts.
The second pivotal rule change removes the safety net of a second serve for both competitors. Each player will be allowed only one serve per point, a move that could neutralise one of Kyrgios's greatest weapons: his powerful and often unpredictable first serve.
A Clash Born from US Open Banter
The exhibition was arranged after a war of words erupted between the two stars at the US Open earlier this year. When questioned about a potential match, Kyrgios confidently stated he could defeat Sabalenka without needing to "100 per cent try." The Belarusian reigning US Open champion fired back with a defiant promise of "kicking a**," prompting their shared management company to organise the showdown.
This modern event revives a concept famously staged in 1973 when Bobby Riggs beat Billie Jean King, before King won a rematch later that year. Jimmy Connors also defeated Martina Navratilova in a 1992 version.
Players' Perspectives on the Unique Challenge
Sabalenka, 27, has embraced the event's spirit, framing it as a win-win scenario for women's tennis. "This event is only going to help bring women's tennis to a higher level," she told BBC Sport. "It's not going to be an easy match for Nick. I'm going to be there competing and showing women are strong, powerful and good entertainment. He's in a lose-lose situation. I'm in a win-win situation."
Kyrgios, however, has highlighted how the single-serve rule could disadvantage him. "You're taking my strength completely out of it," he remarked. He suggested that removing the second serve shifts the dynamic towards baseline rallies, which he believes slightly favours Sabalenka's game.
The best-of-three-sets match promises to be a unique spectacle, blending high-level tennis with a heated debate on gender, athleticism, and entertainment in the sport.
