Battle of the Sexes

In **1973**, Billie Jean King, played by Emma Stone, achieves the prestigious title of the number one player in tennis. This accomplishment marks a pivotal moment not only in her career but also in the fight for gender equality in sports.

As Billie celebrates her success, she receives a surprising phone call from President Richard Nixon. This unexpected interaction highlights her rising prominence not just as an athlete, but as a public figure.

Gladys Heldman bursts into a dance attended by Billie Jean and her husband, Larry, with anger about a letter from Jack Kramer. The two women confront Kramer about the exclusion of female players from the Pacific Southwest Open, inciting their determination to claim a space for women in tennis.

In response to the discriminatory practices in tennis, Billie Jean and Gladys decide to create their own tournament solely for female athletes. This bold move reflects their commitment to fostering equal opportunities in sports.

Meanwhile, Bobby Riggs enjoys a family dinner that takes a tense turn due to his gambling issues. His son Bobby Jr.'s $1 bet escalates an argument with his wife Priscilla, revealing the ongoing friction in their marriage about his gambling addiction.

While Billie Jean and her team celebrate their new contracts for the female tour, Jack Kramer delivers a grave ultimatum. He threatens to expel Billie Jean and her fellow players from the U.S. Lawn Tennis Association if they proceed with their tournament.

Bobby Riggs hits the jackpot, winning a luxurious Rolls Royce, which further complicates his home life. The victory leads to another confrontation with Priscilla, who has reached her breaking point with his gambling behavior and ultimately kicks him out.

During her tour, Billie Jean meets her hairdresser, Marilyn Barnett, which sparks a romantic connection between them. This relationship blossoms amid the pressures of her professional life, highlighting Billie Jean's personal struggles with love and identity.

Bobby Riggs throws down the gauntlet, proposing a high-stakes match against Billie Jean for $100,000. He sensationalizes the event as a battle of the sexes, further polarizing public opinion and drawing attention to women's sports.

Before the planned match with Bobby, Billie Jean competes against Margaret Court but faces an unexpected defeat driven by her personal turmoil. This loss only serves to ignite her determination to rise and confront Bobby.

Bobby's shocking victory over Margaret Court in what is dubbed the Mother's Day Massacre galvanizes Billie Jean into action. Inspired by the public's reaction and the implications of this match, she resolves to face Bobby.

As the date for the match approaches, Bobby immerses himself in media promotion, showcasing a flamboyant and brash persona. Meanwhile, Billie Jean grapples with the pressures of anticipation and faces her own health challenges ahead of the event.

On the day of the match, Bobby dresses extravagantly, while Billie Jean appears resolute and determined. The match unfolds as a dramatic rollercoaster, with Billie Jean recovering from an early disadvantage to ultimately emerge victorious.

After claiming victory over Bobby, Billie Jean shares a heartfelt moment with her friends backstage filled with tears of joy. This pivotal triumph not only marks a significant achievement in sports but also lays groundwork for her future advocacy.

The narrative concludes with Billie Jean carving out her future with true love and activism for LGBTQ rights following her divorce. The film ends with nostalgic photographs of the legendary match, celebrating the enduring impact it has had on sports and society.