Sawt Falasteen - Sabalenka to face Kyrgios in 'Battle of Sexes' on December 28

The rare man-versus-woman match between world number 1 Sabalenka and 30-year-old semi-retired Australian Kyrgios echoes the legendary 1973 encounter when Billie Jean King defeated Bobby Riggs in a key moment as the push for women's rights gained ground.

Sabalenka, who is competing at the WTA Finals this week in Riyadh, commented: "I have so much respect for Billie Jean King and what she has done for the women's game.

"I'm proud to represent women's tennis and to be part of this modern take of the iconic Battle of the Sexes match."

The Belarusian said she had a lot of respect for Kyrgios.

"But make no mistake, I'm ready to bring my A-game," the four-time Grand Slam winner warned the volatile Australian showman who is currently 652nd in the ATP rankings having not played since March.

"When the World No.1 challenges you, you answer the call," Kyrgios, 30, said.

"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. This is what I live for. Dubai, get ready for a show," added the 2022 Wimbledon finalist.

Kyrgios threw down the gauntlet to Sabalenka during the US Open in September, saying in an interview he would easily dispatch the 27-year-old.

Sabalenka responded by saying she was ready to "kick ass" -- setting up an intriguing end to the 2025 tennis season.

E.Aziz--SF-PST