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Sabalenka vs. Kyrgios Sets Dubai 'Battle of the Sexes' Exhibition Under Adapted Rules

Organizers present the adapted‑rule matchup as entertainment rather than a 1973‑style statement.

Overview

  • The exhibition is scheduled for Sunday at Dubai’s Coca‑Cola Arena with international TV carriage reported by ESPN and Movistar+.
  • Both players will serve only once per point and Sabalenka’s side of the court will be reduced by 9% to account for average movement differences.
  • Outlets report conflicting scoring formats, with some stating best‑of‑three with a super tiebreak and others listing two sets with a 10‑point tiebreak.
  • Sabalenka arrives as the WTA world No. 1 after a dominant season, while Kyrgios returns from a long injury layoff with a ranking around No. 671–672.
  • Billie Jean King has stressed this event differs from her 1973 match, and critics note Evolve promotes both players as the spectacle draws debate over competitive meaning.