Billie Jean King

Bobby Riggs was one of my heroes. I admired him. That’s one of the reasons I beat him – because I respected him.

Billie Jean King

Ever since that day when I was 11 years old, and I wasn’t allowed in a photo because I wasn’t wearing a tennis skirt, I knew that I wanted to change the sport.

Billie Jean King

Everyone has people in their lives that are gay, lesbian or transgender or bisexual. They may not want to admit it, but I guarantee they know somebody.

Billie Jean King

I always liked co-ed events best so we have two men and two women on each team.

Billie Jean King

I always wanted to help make tennis a team sport.

Billie Jean King

I didn’t really care if I had a coach that much, me personally, because I was brought up to think for myself.

Billie Jean King

I feel that tennis is an art form that is capable of moving the players and the audience – at least a knowledgeable audience – in almost sensual ways. When I’m performing at my absolute best, I think that some of the euphoria I feel must be transmitted to the audience.

Billie Jean King

I have a lot to say, and if I’m not No. 1, I can’t say it.

Billie Jean King

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.

Billie Jean King

I knew after my first lesson what I wanted to do with my life.

Billie Jean King