Donald Trump’s election victory has caused much consternation across America and evoked mixed responses, from celebrating to feeling betrayed and deeply dismayed. Within tennis community Billie Jean King made her powerful observations known about this issue and shared them on twitter and other forms of communication platforms.
At 80, King turned to social media to express her thoughts about the election results and share how much of an impact Trump’s reelection as 47th President had on her outlook for future generations. Though disappointed in Trump, King stressed the significance of persevering towards creating better outcomes. She highlighted her efforts tackling tough challenges which taught her valuable lessons, one being never giving up the fight towards shaping an imagined future for future generations.
In her message, King reflected on the resilience needed in face of adversity, recalling Vice President Harris’s concession speech which highlighted the enduring promise of America as long as the spirit of never giving up remains alive. “This loss is feedback, not failure,” King articulated, echoing a sentiment of determination and hope beyond the immediate outcomes of the polls.
With the election results now clear, showing Trump’s win through key states like Wisconsin, attention turns to the transition of power, with the Republican party taking control of both the White House and the Senate. Throughout the election period, King was openly supportive of the Democrats, endorsing Harris and encouraging votes in her favor. Despite past criticisms towards Trump, King’s latest remarks stress a forward-looking perspective, focusing on collective action and resilience.
King has long been active within and outside tennis. Notably, she once made comparisons between Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign tactics and her historic Battle of the Sexes match against Bobby Riggs as evidence of self-centered behavior from both politicians. Now that his presidency will continue unimpeded by any legislative body or legislation passed against it by any democratically-elected body (like tennis aces like King) it raises many questions as to their reactions within both communities – such as tennis.
This election cycle has not only altered the political landscape but has provided opportunities for reflection on leadership, activism and the pursuit of equality and justice – themes championed by Billie Jean King herself.