Sunday, January 17, 2010

Champions Adjust

Billie Jean King describing how she changed her plan even before the match started against Bobby Riggs in the famous "Battle of the Sexes" match:

"Initially, I had planned to play an aggressive, serve and volley game against Bobby (who was 26 years her senior).  I knew I was in great shape, but I did not know what kind of shape he was in.  I changed my strategy on the spot.  Instead of ending points quickly, I would get him into long rallies, back and forth, early in the match, still going to the net when it made sense, but wearing him out.  I visualized that for a second or two, then said to myself:  That's it.  Do it."

"If after 5 or 6 long points, Bobby wasn't tired, I would have to re-assess the situation.  I trusted my instincts and it worked beautifully.  He did get tired."

6-4, 6-3, 6-3, King won in straight sets.

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