Meaning: The quote "When I was outed, it was like, That's done." by Billie Jean King, a prominent athlete, carries significant weight and speaks to the challenges and triumphs experienced by LGBTQ+ individuals. Billie Jean King is a former professional tennis player and a prominent advocate for gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights, making her experiences and insights especially relevant and impactful.

The quote reflects a pivotal moment in Billie Jean King's life when her sexual orientation was revealed to the public without her consent. The term "outed" refers to the disclosure of someone's LGBTQ+ identity, often against their will or before they are ready to share this aspect of themselves with others. For many individuals, being outed can be a deeply personal and emotional experience, as it involves the loss of control over how, when, and to whom they disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity.

In the context of Billie Jean King's career and personal life, being outed likely had profound implications. At the time when she was publicly outed, societal attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals were often discriminatory and prejudiced. This quote conveys a sense of finality and resignation, suggesting that once her sexual orientation was made public, there was a sense of closure or acceptance of the situation. It highlights the sense of abruptness and loss of agency that can accompany being outed.

Billie Jean King's experience with being outed is emblematic of the struggles faced by many LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly in the realm of professional sports. Historically, the sports world has been fraught with homophobia and discrimination, creating an environment where LGBTQ+ athletes often felt compelled to conceal their identities for fear of backlash, discrimination, or the loss of opportunities. Billie Jean King's quote captures the weight of these experiences, reflecting the emotional toll and sense of finality that can accompany being outed.

In the broader societal context, the quote also serves as a reminder of the pervasive challenges and stigma faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. The act of being outed can have far-reaching consequences, impacting personal relationships, professional opportunities, and mental well-being. It can also exacerbate feelings of vulnerability and expose individuals to potential harm or discrimination. Billie Jean King's candid expression of the impact of being outed sheds light on the complexities and difficulties inherent in navigating one's sexual orientation or gender identity in a society that may not always be accepting or supportive.

Despite the challenges inherent in being outed, Billie Jean King's resilience and advocacy have served as a source of inspiration for many LGBTQ+ individuals. By openly discussing her experiences and using her platform to advocate for equality and inclusion, she has played a pivotal role in shifting societal attitudes and fostering greater acceptance and visibility for LGBTQ+ individuals in sports and beyond. Her quote serves as a testament to the resilience and strength of LGBTQ+ individuals, as well as a reminder of the ongoing work needed to create a more inclusive and affirming society for all.

In conclusion, Billie Jean King's quote "When I was outed, it was like, That's done." encapsulates the profound impact of being outed as an LGBTQ+ individual, reflecting the loss of agency and the emotional toll that can accompany such an experience. It also underscores the broader societal challenges and stigma faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly in the realm of professional sports. However, through her resilience and advocacy, Billie Jean King has become a powerful symbol of strength and inspiration for LGBTQ+ individuals, contributing to greater visibility and acceptance within sports and society as a whole.