Iconic sporting legends champion IWD and rally fans to inspire inclusion

One of the most accomplished women in the history of sport, Billie Jean King, is a true advocate for women's equality and driving positive momentum in women's sports. She has spent her life empowering women in sports and uplifting their voices to even the playing field. It is very fitting, as such, that a new contest named in her honor has been launched - the Associated Press Billie Jean King Award for Excellence in Women’s Sports Coverage. Read more about it here.

To mark International Women's Day, the former world No. 1 tennis player [pictured above] amplified key messaging around the importance of having an impact.

"Happy International Womens Day! Today and everyday, it's the responsibility of each person to #InspireInclusion. Let's work to #Inspirelnclusion for a more equitable future for all," said Billie Jean.

Billie Jean King also shared an inspiring quote from one of her SHeroes, Former Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States Ruth Bader Ginsburg: "Women belong in all places where decisions are being made."

"It's up to all of us to ensure that the voices and aspirations of all women are valued and included. Each one of us must show up and speak up. So I'll leave you with this: how will you #InspireInclusion?" asked Billie Jean.

Billie Jean is a strong advocate for equity in sports and wages, LGBTQ rights, and inclusive leadership. Her groundbreaking achievements make her an icon in both sports and social justice. 

Billie Jean is founder of BJK Enterprises, a women-owned and women-led investment, consulting, and marketing firm that puts Billie Jean King’s philosophy and brand value to work, capitalizing on her long-standing advocacy for equality.

Celebrating inclusion in the LA 28 Olympic Games

For International Women's Day, five of the newest Olympics sports - lacrosse, softball, cricket, squash, and flag football - celebrated their inclusion in the LA 28 Olympics Games by striking the #InspireInclusion pose and asking: What does inclusion feel like?

"It feels like winning," said Smriti Mandhana, a winning cricketer who represents the Indian women's national team. 

"It feels like togetherness," shared Diana Flores, talented quarterback and captain of the Mexican national team for flag football.

"It feels like you can inspire the world," explained Nour El Sherbini, an Egyptian professional squash player, seven-time world champion, and the youngest woman to win the Women's World Championship. 

"It feels like someone has got your back," said superstar Canadian lacrosse player Erica Evans.

"It feels like every woman can dream bigger," added softball champion Kelly Maxwell.

"Watch us on the road to the LA 28 Olympics. Watch us #InspireInclusion and the next generation. This International Women's Day we're getting together to inspire inclusion today, so our sports can win everyday," they added.

Encouragement to support, value and celebrate one another

Serbian former world No. 1 tennis player, Ana Ivanović shared an inspirational slideshow of her with fellow female champions, both on and off the court.

Ana posted to her millions of followers: "Happy International Women's Day Never forget to support, value and celebrate each other. But most importantly always #InspireInclusion."

Continue to #InspireInclusion in sport and beyond

Everyone everywhere, within their sphere of influence, can help forge women's equality.