And you thought she just was just about tennis.
By Emily Ratay — Written on Feb 24, 2017
One of my favorite feelings in the world is coming across a new role model in a place I would never expect, for example, the tennis world.
If you don’t already know Billie Jean King, think of her as the Serena Williams of the 1970s: a well-known female tennis player, breaking records and making HUGE strides for women in an environment where men are the majority — and where women are usually not seen as more than just a pretty face.
But Billie Jean King was (and still is) more than just a tennis player. What I admire most about her is that she has always been quick to point out and fight against social injustices.
And I don’t know about you, but I am ALWAYS looking for more fierce women to add to my list of role models. Speaking out about difficult subjects and standing up for injustices when it feels like you’re all alone can be really scary.
It’s not easy to make yourself look vulnerable in order to fight for those who actually ARE vulnerable, but Billie Jean King has never been afraid to do what’s right.
Not only is she an advocate for LGBT rights, but she’s also a lesbian who has had her fair share of struggles in life, all because of who she loves.
Being outed as gay was especially hard because she knew she wasn’t ready, yet she had to push through all those who now tried to use her sexuality against her, along with her gender.
Even though this was 30 years ago, things like this STILL happen today and we’re STILL fighting for LGBT rights and gender equality.
But even in the face of all those who wanted to see her fail, King kicked ass and is still doing what she can to educate and support those who need it.
So, it’s definitely no exaggeration when I say she’s a BAMF, right? And to celebrate her and all she’s done for women and those in the LGBT community, here are some of our favorite quotes by her.
If you’re looking for a little inspiration, we’ve got the best quotes to share and savor. For quotes from the most inspiring celebs, activists, and poets, look no further! You might even find the quote that motivates the best parts of your life (and love!) forever.
“Champions keep playing until they get it right.” — Billie Jean King
“Sports teaches you character, it teaches you to play by the rules, it teaches you to know what it feels like to win and lose – it teaches you about life.” — Billie Jean King
“I think self-awareness is probably the most important thing towards being a champion.” — Billie Jean King
“Be bold. If you're going to make an error, make a doozy, and don't be afraid to hit the ball.” — Billie Jean King
“A champion is afraid of losing. Everyone else is afraid of winning.” — Billie Jean King
“It is very hard to be a female leader. While it is assumed that any man, no matter how tough, has a soft side... and a female leader is assumed to be one-dimensional.” — Billie Jean King
“It's just really important that we start celebrating our differences. Let's start tolerating first, but then we need to celebrate our differences.” — Billie Jean King
“The main thing is to care. Care very hard, even if it is only a game you are playing.” — Billie Jean King
“Any therapist will tell you that when you're ready, you will come out. To be outed means you weren't ready.” — 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
“They're not put on earth to be martyrs; they have to want to come out. It depends on your culture, where you work, where you live. Each person's circumstances are unique.” — Billie Jean King