NEW YORK -- On Thursday, filmmaker Ava Duvernay and US Open tournament director Stacey Allaster were honored with the Billie Jean King Champions of Equality Award. This prestigious award recognizes their exceptional contributions to advancing gender equality in their respective fields.

The Legacy of Billie Jean King

The award, established in 2023, commemorates the 50th anniversary of Billie Jean King's historic achievement in securing equal pay for women at the US Open. King's relentless advocacy for gender equality has left an indelible mark on the world of sports and beyond.

Ava Duvernay: A Trailblazer in Film

Ava Duvernay, renowned for directing critically acclaimed films such as Selma and A Wrinkle in Time, has broken barriers in the film industry. She is the first Black woman to direct a film nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards and to win Best Director at the Sundance Film Festival. During the ceremony, Duvernay expressed her deep admiration for King, stating, "It was beautiful to be thought of. Certainly Billie Jean King is an icon way beyond the sport."

Stacey Allaster: A Pioneer in Tennis

Stacey Allaster, the first woman to serve as the US Open's tournament director, has been a formidable force in the tennis world. Her tenure as chairman and CEO of the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) saw significant strides in securing equal prize money at major tournaments like the French Open and Wimbledon. Allaster will be stepping down from her role at the end of this year's US Open, leaving behind a legacy of progress and inclusivity.

A Panel Discussion on Equality

The event also featured a panel discussion with previous award recipients, Venus Williams and Shonda Rhimes, alongside Duvernay. They shared insights on their careers and the ongoing fight for equality. Williams emphasized the importance of equity, stating, "When you deny equity, you make your own world smaller. The world is so big. There's so many things to experience and to know and to understand... It's an incredible world, if you allow it to be."

Recognizing USTA Members

In addition to honoring Duvernay and Allaster, the ceremony acknowledged members from across the USTA's 17 sections for their dedication to fostering inclusivity in tennis. Their efforts continue to shape a more equitable future for the sport.

This year's Billie Jean King Champions of Equality Award not only celebrates the achievements of Duvernay and Allaster but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey toward gender equality in all spheres of life.