Billie Jean King Stars in New ESPN Documentary

Billie Jean King is the subject of a new documentary, Give Me The Ball!, which premiered at the Sundance Festival on January 26 and had its European premiere on June 12. The documentary, directed by Liz Garbus and Elizabeth Wolff, features King narrating her life from picking up a tennis racket at age 11 to her current status as a former tennis player.

What inspired Billie Jean King's tennis career?

King's family couldn't afford for her to play tennis, so she started out at free tennis camps. She recalls a formative moment when a tournament barred her from a photo because she wore white shorts instead of a white dress.

How did Billie Jean King combat inequality in sports?

King worked with eight other female tennis players to launch their own tennis tour, signing $1 contracts with promoter Gladys Heldman. This move helped transform women's tennis into a viable professional sport, opening the door to major sponsorships and prize money. The group also created the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) in 1973, forcing major tournaments like the US Open to grant equal prize money that year.

What other challenges did Billie Jean King face?

King addresses her love life, coming to terms with her sexuality, and a former lover taking her to court, forcing her to come out as a lesbian. The documentary features interviews from members of the Original 9, her late ex-husband Larry King, Elton John, and Serena Williams. The film had a significant impact on the audience, with many cinemagoers visibly moved by King's story. Give Me The Ball! is an impactful piece that balances sports history with personal testimony, making a persuasive case for King's lasting impact on gender equality in athletics. The documentary will be available on ESPN, offering a unique look at King's life and career. As of June 12, the documentary has premiered in Europe, with a wider release expected soon.