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WOMEN’S world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka is set to compete against former men’s Wimbledon runner-up Nick Kyrgios in an exciting exhibition match TODAY!
This highly anticipated showdown will see the two stars clash in Dubai on December 28.
Aryna Sabalenka is the current US Open championCredit: Getty
Nick Kyrgios’ best performance at a Grand Slam was reaching the Wimbledon final in 2022Credit: Reuters
This match marks the fourth occasion a man has faced a woman on the tennis court since Bobby Riggs defeated Margaret Court and later lost to Billie Jean King in 1973.
In 1992, Jimmy Connors triumphed over Martina Navratilova.
Kyrgios is a four-time Grand Slam champion, while Sabalenka has recently dropped to 652nd in the world due to injury and has not participated in a professional match since March.
When is Aryna Sabalenka vs Nick Kyrgios in ‘Battle of the Sexes’ match?
- The match is scheduled to take place at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai TODAY – Sunday, December 28.
- The starting time is set for 3:30 PM GMT.
How can I watch Aryna Sabalenka vs Nick Kyrgios in ‘Battle of the Sexes’ match for FREE?
- The match will be broadcast on the BBC, allowing fans to watch for FREE.
- It will be streamed live on BBC One, and there is also an option to watch on iPlayer.
- Alternatively, you can follow the action with the LIVE blog on the website.
What are the rules of Aryna Sabalenka vs Nick Kyrgios in ‘Battle of the Sexes’ match?
- The match will follow a best of three sets format, with a ten-point tiebreak if a deciding set is needed.
- Sabalenka’s side of the court will be nine percent smaller than usual, as organizers claim female players are nine percent slower than their male counterparts.
- Both players will serve only once instead of the traditional two serves.
- This exhibition match will not have any ranking points at stake.
What has been said?
The outspoken Kyrgios responded to critics who argue that the match is detrimental to the sport.
He expressed online: “All the negative comments regarding the ‘Battle of the Sexes’ are only drawing more attention to it.
“Ultimately, Aryna will be remembered as one of the greatest players to ever compete in this sport. I will have entertained audiences around the world.
“We are two friends who want to put on a great show and attract more viewers to tennis.
“Forget all the negativity – doesn’t this seem like a step in the right direction?
“Just sit back and enjoy the show. We both relish the challenge and are entering this with little experience. No one cares about your opinions.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the match start?
The match is scheduled to start at 3:30 PM GMT.
Where can I watch the match?
The match will be available for free on BBC One and can also be streamed on iPlayer.
What are the match rules?
It will be a best of three sets match with a ten-point tiebreak if needed, and each player will only have one serve.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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