Ever since that day when I was 11 years old, and I wasn't allowed in a photo because I wasn't wearing a tennis skirt, I knew that I wanted to change the sport.
Billie Jean KingRead
Tennis taught me so many lessons in life. One of the things it taught me is that every ball that comes to me, I have to make a decision. I have to accept responsibility for the consequences every time I hit a ball.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Life is about making choices and accepting the consequences of those choices.
In this quote, Billie Jean King reflects on how tennis serves as a metaphor for life, emphasizing the importance of decision-making and personal accountability. Each tennis ball symbolizes opportunities or challenges that require a response, and how one chooses to engage with these moments defines their journey and personal growth.
Themes
TennisLifeDecisionResponsibilityConsequences
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech at a sports event.
More from Billie Jean King
All quotes →A champion is afraid of losing. Everyone else is afraid of winning.
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Natural talent only determines the limits of your athletic potential. It's dedication and a willingness to discipline your life that makes you great.
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I feel that tennis is an art form that is capable of moving the players and the audience - at least a knowledgeable audience-in almost sensual ways. When I'm performing at my absolute best, I think that some of the euphoria I feel must be transmitted to the audience.
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I like putting money back into what made my life, and tennis has been great to me.
Billie Jean KingRead
Be bold. If you're going to make an error, make a doozy, and don't be afraid to hit the ball.
Billie Jean KingRead
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