Billie Jean King ignited significant momentum for gender equality in sports after her legendary triumph over Bobby Riggs in the 1973 Battle of the Sexes tennis match. Today, over 50 years later, King is thrilled to witness women athletes flourishing, particularly in basketball.

“Caitlin Clark, I mean come on. We all saw Caitlin,” King remarked. “I think Reese is amazing. Angel Reese, I’ve met her. JuJu Watkins, she’s great.”

King highlighted how prominent female athletes today are building upon a legacy that she and others pioneered. She advised young athletes to prioritize personal aspirations over concerns about legacy, stressing that fulfillment comes from chasing personal goals rather than what others think.

“I always ask a person, ‘What do you want?’ Not what the world wants, not what your parents want. What do you want?” she said. “You’ll be surprised how many young people aren’t sure.”

King’s insights resonate strongly in a society where visibility and support for women’s sports continue to evolve.