Pressure Is A Privilege
When players make their way onto the court at Arthur Ashe Stadium for the US Open, an iconic quote from Billie Jean King is cemented on a plaque as they walk by: “Pressure is a privilege.”
BJK’s phrase rings true as players make their way to compete in the largest tennis stadium in the world. An important reminder of the right they’ve earned to play under such stresses.
The origin of King’s trademark line happened at the 2000 Fed Cup final-now known as the Billie Jean King Cup. King was captaining the US team, when star Lindsay Davenport asked her to say something to motivate her. King responded: ‘Pressure is a privilege, and champions adjust.
And so, the impromptu motivation quote not only inspired Davenport and the US team to defeat Spain and win the cup, but it continues to drive individuals and athletes to handle pressure under great circumstances.
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