“Give Me the Ball!”, a powerful documentary by Liz Garbus and Elizabeth Wolff, pays homage to the extraordinary career of tennis legend Billie Jean King. This film, presented as part of ESPN Films’ renowned “30 for 30” series, masterfully combines a wealth of historical footage with a compelling modern-day interview with King, now in her eighties. The documentary is a dynamic exploration of King’s athletic brilliance and her profound influence as an advocate for women’s rights and LGBTQ+ visibility. It vividly captures her candidness, humor, and down-to-earth demeanor, offering viewers an intimate look at the woman behind the legend.
A significant portion of the film centers on the transformative year of 1973, when King, already a celebrated Grand Slam champion, faced off against Bobby Riggs in the highly anticipated “Battle of the Sexes.” Riggs, a former tennis champion, confidently asserted male superiority in tennis, making derogatory remarks about women’s capabilities and their place in society. His provocations, particularly regarding equal pay in sports and traditional gender roles, deeply motivated King. The film adeptly portrays King’s immense pressure and vulnerability leading up to this match, underscoring her profound sense of responsibility to represent and advance women’s progress. The documentary also showcases the prevailing chauvinism of the era through archival media clips, highlighting the societal challenges King confronted. Editor Joshua L. Pearson’s skillful work transforms this vintage material into an enthralling sports narrative, immersing the audience in the tension and excitement of the historic match.
Beyond the court, the documentary delves into King’s personal life, revealing her struggles with identity and her path to self-acceptance. She openly discusses her marriage to Larry King, her initial lesbian relationship, and her eventual marriage to Ilana Kloss, emphasizing the profound challenges of being a queer professional athlete in a less accepting time. The film also acknowledges the crucial support from figures like Elton John, who provided a safe space for King to explore her identity. Furthermore, it details her pivotal role in establishing the women’s professional tennis tour, initially sponsored by Philip Morris, which was a monumental step toward gender equality in professional sports. The documentary features insightful contributions from contemporaries like Rosie Casals, Julie Heldman, and Chris Evert, alongside a heartfelt acknowledgment from Serena Williams about King’s enduring legacy. The film emphasizes King’s selfless dedication to social justice, painting a picture of a leader whose humility and profound impact inspire far beyond the tennis world.
Billie Jean King’s story serves as a powerful testament to the impact of courage, perseverance, and unwavering dedication to justice. Her journey reminds us that true victory extends beyond personal achievements, encompassing the upliftment and empowerment of others. Her enduring legacy continues to inspire generations to challenge inequalities and strive for a more inclusive world where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.