In “Battle of the Sexes,” Billie Jean King Pursues Equality On and Off the Court
Published to Human Rights Campaign on October 20, 2017
Trailblazing activist and athlete Billie Jean King has long been a champion for social change, spearheading the women’s movement in her sport and cementing her legacy as a lifelong advocate for LGBTQ equality.
One of the most defining moments of King’s career is now in theaters. “Battle of the Sexes,” starring Emma Stone as King, tells the story of her legendary match with Bobby Riggs. The film’s release comes on the heels of the 44th anniversary of the famous “Battle of the Sexes” tennis tournament, which captivated the nation and sparked a national conversation on gender roles in America. It solidified King’s status as a barrier-breaking tennis pro and a pioneer in the women’s movement.