Martina Accepts Gerulaitis’ Challenge for a ‘Battle of Sexes’ Doubles Match

Martina Navratilova on Saturday accepted the challenge from Vitas Gerulaitis to a “Battle of the Sexes” doubles tennis match.

On Thursday, Gerulaitis and Bobby Riggs challenged Navratilova and her regular doubles partner, Pam Shriver. The best-of-five-set match is tentatively set for Aug. 16 or 23 in either Atlantic City, N.J., or Las Vegas.

A $500,000 purse will be offered, although the split has yet to be determined.

The 67-year-old Riggs, who defeated Margaret Smith Court, then lost to Billie Jean King in “mixed singles” exhibitions in 1973, is promoting the match.

“I’m ready for the old men,” Navratilova said. “Gerulaitis is 30 years old and says he has one foot in the grave. I’m 28. Does two years make a difference between being in your prime and having a foot in the grave?”