The Virginia Slims Circuit
In 1970, because of the lack of tournaments and prize money for women, King and eight other players defied the tennis establishment to form their own pro circuit. They were called the "Original 9."
"We had no idea that this little dollar would turn into millions."
-Rosie Casals, 40 years after the Virginia Slims Tour started.
[Source: American Masters]
The "Original Nine"
Billie Jean King Rosemary Casals Judy Dalton Nancy Richey Peaches Bartkowicz Kristy Pigeon Valerie Ziegenfuss Julie Heldman Kerry Reid |
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Many experts doubted they could attract crowds to generate prize money, but the circuit was a huge success. Women's tennis was improving financially, but the United States Tennis Association saw the success they were having and started their own tour.
"I was really upset when they set up a rival tour. I wanted them to join us, not go against us."
-Billie Jean King in 2013, reflecting on the Virginia Slims Circuit
[Source: American Masters]
The circuit led to the foundation of the Women's Tennis Association (WTA).