Michelle Obama celebrates tennis triumphs and equality in a star-studded tournament at the US Open

Excitement filled the Arthur Ashe Stadium as influential figures like former President and First Lady Michelle and Barack Obama, fashion icon Anna Wintour, renowned actor Alec Baldwin, boxing legend Mike Tyson, and beloved actor Danny DeVito took their seats.

Although they came from different backgrounds and careers, they all shared an interest in watching a young tennis star and celebrating the spirit of competition.

Coco Gauff’s opening match was a rollercoaster of emotions, drawing the attention and admiration of the audience. Gauff, a 19-year-old from Florida, faced a complex first set against her opponent Laura Siegemund. However, Gauff’s tenacity and skill were fully displayed as she fought back, winning the match 3-6, 6-2, 6-4. Her remarkable comeback showcased her determination and potential, captivating the attendees.

In a poignant moment that added depth to the evening, former First Lady Michelle Obama took center stage to pay tribute to Billie Jean King. The occasion marked the 50th anniversary of the US Open’s historic decision to offer equal prize money to both men and women—a significant milestone in sports and gender equality. Michelle Obama eloquently introduced Billie Jean King, recounting her pivotal role in advocating for equal pay and the impact of her legacy on women’s sports.

Billie Jean King’s journey as a tennis champion and an advocate for gender equality was showcased as Michelle Obama recalled her remarkable achievement in rallying fellow women players to demand equal pay. King’s victory at the 1972 US Open was not just a personal triumph but a milestone that led to equal prize money for men and women in Grand Slam tennis tournaments.

The former First Lady emphasized King’s enduring commitment to fighting for progress and her inspiring message of empowerment. “Billie Jean teaches us that when things lie in the balance, we all have a choice to make. We can either wait around and accept what we’re given. We can sit silently and hope someone else fights our battles. Or we can make our own stand,” Michelle Obama said. “We can use whatever platforms we have to speak out and fight to protect the progress we’ve made, and level the playing field for all of our daughters and their daughters.”

In 1972, King emerged victorious at the US Open but only received $10,000 for her achievement, which was $15,000 less than the prize money given to the men’s champion. In response, she declared that she and other female players would boycott the event the following year.

In 1973, King assisted in finding a sponsor who contributed funds to make up for the discrepancy in pay between the two singles champions. As a result, they were both awarded $25,000. It wasn’t until over three decades later that Wimbledon adopted equal pay for its singles winners, making it the final major tennis tournament to do so.

“Even today, there are far too many tournaments out there that still need to give equal pay to women. ... Let us remember all of this is far bigger than a champion’s paycheck,” Michelle noted. “This is about how women are seen and valued in this world.”

Coco Gauff’s victory allowed her to advance in the tournament and presented her with the opportunity to meet the Obamas in person. In a candid moment, Gauff expressed her awe at encountering the former President and First Lady, describing the experience as unforgettable. During their meeting, the Obamas offered Gauff valuable advice, with Michelle Obama emphasizing the importance of speaking up for oneself—an aspect that resonated with Gauff’s recent discussion with the chair umpire regarding her opponent’s delay tactics.

“I was like, ‘Oh, my God.’ I haven’t soaked it in because I literally just walked in here. I think I’m going to never forget that moment for the rest of my life. I went from being really upset after a win to, like, being really happy. So I’m glad I got to meet them. They gave me some good advice, too,” Coco revealed.