November 02, (THEWILL) – In light of the continuous worries over Qatar’s human rights record, tennis legend, Billie Jean King, thinks it is “important” for people to attend the World Cup there and be influencers for change.
Concerns about the human rights situation in a nation where same-sex partnerships are illegal have been raised in response to FIFA’s decision to allow Qatar host the global football fiesta.
When asked if she would allow the WTA’s Billie Jean Cup to be held by the World Cup hosts, King responded: “I probably would because, first of all, the WTA went there years ago. I get a lot of different people coming to me saying ‘why would you play there, the way they treat women?’ But personally, I think it’s important to show up and be an influencer.
“I think it’s delicate, no question. But I think it’s important to go if you get the opportunity and everything else fits too, not just go there for money or whatever.”
King has always advocated for equality, working to ensure equal prize money at tennis’ four major tournaments. Harry Kane, the captain of England, will be one of eight captains to sport a distinctive heart-adorned armband during the competition to promote the OneLove anti-discrimination campaign.
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