Billie Jean King
B.Nov 22, 1943-Present
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Billie Jean King Hand-Picked Quotes

Billie Jean King is widely recognized for her accomplishments in the tennis world and her advocacy for gender equality and social justice. She has won a staggering 39 Grand Slam titles throughout her career (12 singles, 16 women's doubles, and 11 mixed doubles), establishing herself as one of the sport's leading figures.

King's on-court success is paralleled by her off-court activism, particularly highlighted by her victory in the "Battle of the Sexes" match against Bobby Riggs in 1973. This event was a significant moment for women's rights, drawing global attention and contributing to the push for equality in sports.

In addition to her athletic achievements, King has been a strong advocate for equal pay and opportunities for women in sports. She was instrumental in the founding of the Women's Tennis Association and the Women's Sports Foundation, both aimed at promoting and supporting female athletes. These organizations have played a crucial role in advancing women's rights within the sports world.

King's contributions to tennis and society go beyond her personal victories. She has been a key figure in the fight for gender equality, influencing changes in how female athletes are perceived and treated. Her legacy includes not only her championship titles but also her efforts to create a more equitable environment for future generations of athletes. Through her tireless work, Billie Jean King has made a significant impact on the sports industry and continues to be a source of inspiration.

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In the words of Billie Jean King:
The main thing is not a matter of wanting to win; the main thing is being scared to lose.
Bobby Riggs was one of my heroes. I admired him. That's one of the reasons I beat him - because I respected him.
As far as U.S. tennis, we need new stars coming up in the pipeline, but I don't know if we have it.
Our love one's are never gone, they have just popped into another room.
Ask Nureyev to stop dancing, ask Sinatra to stop singing, then you can ask me to stop playing.
I have often been asked whether I am a women or an athlete. The question is absurd. Men are not asked that. I am an athlete. I am a women.
A girl didn't get an athletic scholarship until the fall of 1972 for the very first time.
My whole life has been about equal rights and opportunities. For me it really goes back to the health of mind, body and soul.
Champions take responsibility. When the ball is coming over the net, you can be sure I want the ball.
Natural talent only determines the limits of your athletic potential. It's dedication and a willingness to discipline your life that makes you great.
Pressure is a privilege. It only comes to those who earn it.
It's very important to take tennis to the people. For young people, they get to see the best in the world.
In business, everything starts with integrity. Otherwise it falls apart, though it does take time to find out who has integrity.
Reputation is what others think about you. What's far more important is character, because that is what you think about yourself.
I grew up in team sports. I think I understand the psyche of America. I think when children sign up to play, it's got to be team.
Each point I play is in the now moment. The last point means nothing, the next point means nothing.
Sports are a microcosm of society. It just shows how much more competition there is in the world.
Being Number One isn't everything to me, but for those few hours on the court it's way ahead of whatever's in second place.
Don't go into debt and don't spend a lot. It's not how much money you make, it's how much you spend.
You want people to feel like they belong to something. And not be elitist. You don't want us to be elitist.