How Have You Been Inspired & Impacted by the Original 9?
Comprised of Americans Peaches Bartkowicz, Rosie Casals, Julie Heldman, Billie Jean King, Kristy Pigeon, Nancy Richey, Valerie Ziegenfuss, and Australians Judy Tegart Dalton and Kerry Melville Reid, the Original 9’s actions empowered and inspired women in ways that are still being experienced today, generations later.
In honor of Women’s History Month, the International Tennis Hall of Fame wants to hear from people around the globe on their own personal stories of inspiration and opportunity related to the Original 9.
On September 23, 1970, nine brave women banded together to take a bold stand against the traditional tennis norms which were then showing extreme inequity in playing opportunities and prize money for men versus women.
In a risky move that put their own individual tennis careers at risk, on September 23, 1970, the Original 9 of women’s professional tennis signed $1 contracts to compete in a new professional tournament exclusively for women. The event, the Virginia Slims Invitational in Houston, was such a success that it led to the creation of a circuit of approximately 20 events the following year, and paved the way for the WTA Tour, where tennis flourishes today as the leading professional sport for women.
Without the Original 9's bravery, visionary mindset, and unwavering commitment, opportunities for women in tennis and beyond, simply would not be what they are today.
So this Women’s History Month, whether it be in tennis, other sports, education, career, or any other areas, please share your story: what has the Original 9 and their groundbreaking actions meant for you?
All are encouraged to tell their own story, share a memory, reflect on the Original 9’s legacy, or express gratitude, and include a photo or video if you wish.
Submit your story by March 31 on www.tennisfame.com/O9Inspired.
Later this year, the Original 9 will be honored for their immense contributions by being honored with induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame will compile these personal messages from fans across the globe who have been influenced by the Original 9 for use in this year's induction celebrations.
