Billie Jean King Has an Impelling Message for Tennis Players Ahead of Australian Open 2021

There is an unignorable ruckus going on among players who are taking part in the Australian Open 2021. To change that matter, the legend of the sport and the founder of WTA, Billie Jean King
shared a video, through which she hopes to help players navigate their journey at the Grand Slam.

For context, King first tells a story about the origins of her ‘Pressure is a privilege’ saying. Here’s what happened: In Las Vegas, before a match between America’s Lindsay Davenport and Spain’s Arantxa Sanchez Vicario, Lindsay felt flustered and uptight.

So, Davenport looked up to the much experienced Billie Jean King for help. Billie responded by saying: ‘Pressure is a privilege’ and ‘Champions adjust’. Following that, Lindsay played with all her heart and won the match.

Breaking the ice with the players in Australia, King feels that their situation is similar, and she’s asking them to hang in there and remember her words of wisdom.

Billie Jean King has a message for players ahead of Australian Open 2021

Many are locked inside their hotel rooms; they will not train until a week before the Australian Open 2021 begins. This has made the situation harder than expected. That is why Billie Jean King
decided to address them virtually.

“For the players that are in Australia, it’s tough down there and you gonna have to really go with the flow. But I think, champions adjust or champions adapt might be the most helpful statement I could give right now. Just do the best you can and go with it. And good luck to everyone,” King said.

However, the players have already spent more than a week of their regulated 14-days. For them to be match-ready before the year’s first Slam, Melbourne will host a bunch of other tournaments.

Read More: List of Players Missing at the Australian Open 2021

Who are the favorites in Australia?

Serbian World No. 1 Novak Djokovic is a record eight-time champion of the ‘Happy Slam’. He is also the winner of the tournament for the past couple of years. Thus, he makes the right candidate for a favorite at the Australian Open 2021.

On the women’s side, there is a sea of talent and thirst to win the first Slam of the year. Last year’s winner Sofia Kenin will definitely fight to defend her crown, But home-favorite Ashleigh Barty and 2019 winner Naomi Osaka will also aim to grab the glory.

Not to mention, the American powerhouse Serena Williams is still in the quest for her 24 major. Hopefully, Billie Jean’s message will turn around the air in Australia and players will be energized to play great tennis.

Who are your favorites for the upcoming Majors tournament?

Also Read: Victoria Azarenka Opens up on Difficulties Players Could Face After Quarantine at Australian Open 2021 Bubble