In the annals of sports history, 1973 stands out as a monumental year for Billie Jean King. The tennis legend not only triumphed in the famous Battle of the Sexes but also laid the foundation for the Women’s Tennis Association. Her achievements included completing the Wimbledon triple crown and securing equal pay at the U.S. Open. Now, 50 years later at the age of 79, King’s dynamism is undiminished as she continues to make waves in sports, business, and advocacy.
“I’m big on it—I think I have six COVID vaccinations now. I’m up to steam. Especially since I’m older. I don’t feel old, but I’m older.”
Championing Health: A Preventive Approach
Beyond her busy schedule, King places a high premium on health. She strongly advocates for preventive measures, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. With a passion for staying healthy, she remarks, “This is one time we can help ourselves.” King emphasizes the importance of consulting with doctors while being proactive about health.
“I remember my mom, when she was in her early 80s, saying, Billie, keep moving, or it’s over. She was absolutely correct.”
Lessons from Mom: The Power of Movement
King draws inspiration from her mother, recognizing the transformative power of movement. Her mother’s wisdom, “keep moving, or it’s over,” resonates deeply with King. Reflecting on her mother’s commitment to staying active, King advocates for consistent movement as a key element in maintaining vitality.
“Once I hit one ball, I was off and running. It’s changed my life. I’m so much happier—I look forward to it.”
Tennis Renaissance: Rediscovering Joy on the Court
During the pandemic, King rediscovered her love for tennis. Encouraged by her wife, Ilana Kloss, she returned to the court. Describing the experience, King says, “It’s changed my life. I’m so much happier.” Tennis has become a source of joy, fulfillment, and a means of staying mentally and emotionally healthy.
“I try to move everything back and start later. I do my best thinking when it’s quiet at night.”
Sleeping on Her Terms: Prioritizing Rest
In her unconventional approach to sleep, Billie Jean King’s commitment to prioritizing rest reflects her individuality and conscious effort to tailor her wellness routine to her own rhythms. Contrary to societal norms, she stays up until 1 am and embraces a later wake-up time until 9 am. This unique sleep schedule not only challenges conventional ideas about wellness practices but also highlights the importance of personalized self-care. King’s preference for the quietude of the night underscores the significance of finding what works best for oneself in the pursuit of optimal well-being.
Billie Jean King’s preference for a later wake-up time may align with the concept of chronotypes, acknowledging that individuals have different internal clocks governing their peak alertness and sleepiness at different times of the day.
“We’ve got to make sure that we have not only a seat at the table, but a voice and a vote.”
Advocacy and Empowerment: Guiding the Next Generation
King’s advocacy extends beyond her personal well-being. Drawing on her experiences as a young tennis player fighting against inequality, she encourages athletes to understand the business side of their fields. King emphasizes the need for athletes to not only have a seat at the table but also a voice and a vote. Her goal is to empower the next generation to lead the fight for equality.
“I strongly believe in focusing on prevention and keeping our bodies healthy in the first place.”
Vocal for Prevention: Championing Vaccination
As a spokesperson for Moderna, Billie Jean King is not just a tennis legend but also a vocal advocate for public health and preventive measures, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her staunch support for vaccination aligns with her broader philosophy of focusing on prevention and keeping bodies healthy. King’s dedication to championing vaccination goes beyond personal health; it reflects a commitment to community well-being and a belief in the collective responsibility to mitigate the impact of infectious diseases.
Billie Jean King’s advocacy for vaccination underscores the role of influential figures in promoting public health initiatives. Her support contributes to raising awareness and encouraging broader vaccination efforts.
King’s collaboration with Moderna emphasizes the importance of partnerships between public figures and pharmaceutical companies to disseminate accurate information about vaccines and promote widespread vaccination.
Highlighting her multiple COVID vaccinations not only underscores her commitment to personal health but also serves as a model for the public, reinforcing the idea that vaccination is a crucial tool in combating the spread of infectious diseases.
In her words, “I strongly believe in focusing on prevention and keeping our bodies healthy in the first place.”
Conclusion
Billie Jean King’s life journey is a powerful testament to the timeless virtues of resilience, passion, and advocacy. Her unwavering commitment to staying active and pursuing her passions not only solidifies her status as a tennis legend but also stands as a beacon of inspiration for individuals across generations. King’s resilience, demonstrated through her triumphant moments on the court and her ability to adapt and rediscover joy, serves as a profound lesson in embracing change and finding fulfillment in life’s evolving chapters.
As a vocal advocate for positive change, King’s impact extends far beyond her athletic achievements. Her dedication to fighting for equality, both on and off the tennis court, positions her as a trailblazer whose influence reverberates through societal norms. By empowering the next generation of advocates and encouraging athletes to understand the business side of their respective fields, King is actively shaping a legacy that transcends sports, emphasizing the importance of not just having a seat at the table but also a voice and a vote.
In the realm of wellness, Billie Jean King’s holistic approach to health offers a blueprint for a purpose-driven life. Her unique sleep practices and advocacy for vaccination underscore her individuality and commitment to collective well-being. King’s life story echoes far beyond the confines of a tennis court, resonating as a narrative of resilience, passion, and a relentless pursuit of positive change—a narrative that continues to inspire and empower individuals to embrace life with vigor, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference.