The Original 9: Pioneers Who Created the Women's Tennis Association

The Birth of the Women’s Tennis Association: A Revolution in Sports

On September 23, 1970, nine courageous women dared to change the landscape of professional tennis by signing $1 contracts that initiated the creation of the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA). This pivotal moment not only transformed women's tennis but also marked a significant leap towards equality in sports.

The Setting: Gender Disparity in Tennis

Before the establishment of the WTA, women in tennis faced glaring inequities. Prize money was shockingly unequal; for instance, at the 1970 Italian Open, the men’s champion earned $3,500, while the female champion took home a mere $600. This financial disparity highlighted a systemic issue affecting female athletes across the spectrum.

Meet the Original 9: Pioneers for Change

Billie Jean King, Rosie Casals, Nancy Richey, Judy Dalton, Kerry Melville Reid, Julie Heldman, Kristy Pigeon, Peaches Bartkowicz, and Valerie Ziegenfuss formed the Original 9. Their participation in Gladys Heldman’s Virginia Slims Invitational, established as a response to the U.S. Lawn Tennis Association's refusal to elevate women's competitions, represented an act of defiance against a male-dominated structure. Despite threats of losing rankings and entry into prestigious tournaments, these brave women were undeterred. They believed in a better future for women in sports, insisting, as King noted, that this moment was about paving the way for future generations.

The Impact of the Virginia Slims Circuit

The success of the Virginia Slims Invitational demonstrated the commercial viability of women’s tennis. The circuit not only attracted large crowds but also secured significant sponsorships, laying the groundwork for the eventual establishment of the WTA in 1973. This was a turning point that would allow future generations of female athletes to thrive on and off the court.

Lasting Legacy and Modern Influence

By unifying professional women’s tennis, the WTA has advocated for equal prize money, provided a structured calendar for tournaments, and elevated women's sports globally. Today, it represents over 2,500 players from nearly 100 countries, continuing the fight for equality initiated by the Original 9. This legacy is evident in both the increasing prize money across tournaments and the cultural shifts promoting women’s rights in sports.

Why This Matters

The journey of the WTA is more than a story about tennis; it’s a narrative of resilience, empowerment, and paving the way for change. The bravery shown by the Original 9 serves as an inspiration not only for athletes but for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and professionals who seek to challenge the status quo.

As we reflect on this history, it is clear that understanding and appreciating the challenges faced by these women can provide valuable insights for anyone striving for success in their own fields. These pioneers remind us that with determination and courage, change is not only possible but necessary.

Let's champion the spirit of the Original 9, drawing inspiration from their defiance to fuel our own ventures, advocating for equality in every aspect of our lives and work.