I think self-awareness is probably the most important thing towards being a champion.
Analyse
While the quote aligns with King's known emphasis on mental strength in sports, no archived transcripts, interviews, or reputable sources from 1973 attribute this specific phrasing to her. Quotes from that era often focus on her advocacy for gender equality or the 'Battle of the Sexes' match.
Achtergrond
Billie Jean King won Wimbledon in 1973 (her 6th singles title) and was a vocal advocate for athletes' self-belief. However, press conference records from that time are sparse, and this quote lacks a traceable origin.
Samenvatting verdict
No verifiable record confirms Billie Jean King made this exact statement at a 1973 Wimbledon press conference.
Geraadpleegde bronnen
— Wimbledon Official Archives (no matching transcript found)
— Billie Jean King's 1973 press coverage (e.g., NYT, The Guardian)
— King's autobiography 'All In' (2021) – no mention of this quote