Billie Jean King attended the DC/DOX documentary film festival on Thursday night, where her film 'Give Me the Ball!' was screened.
What happened at the festival?
The festival opened with the screening of 'Give Me the Ball!', exploring King's career and cultural impact.
King took part in a discussion after the screening, joined by members of the filmmaking team, including co-director Elizabeth Wolff and producers Dan Cogan and Chris James.
Why did Billie Jean King want to make this documentary?
King explained that she did not want the documentary to be a vanity project, but rather a truthful portrayal of her life and career.
She added that she had to go through a lot of prayer and thought before agreeing to the project, knowing it would be challenging but important.
What was Billie Jean King's input in the documentary?
Wolff revealed that King had some input in the filming process, particularly when it came to capturing her playing tennis.
King shared that she has always been fascinated by film and would often ask questions and drive the crew crazy.
At the age of 12, King had an epiphany at the LA Tennis Club, realizing that she wanted to make a difference in the world.
She went on to become one of the greatest tennis champions, winning 39 Grand Slams and advocating for social justice and women's liberation.
In the 1970s, King led efforts to create the first women's professional tennis tour and achieved equal pay for women in big tournaments.
The documentary builds towards King's 1973 match against Bobby Riggs, a former no. 1 men's player who had publicly dismissed women's athletic ability.