Strong Women: Inspirational athletes at the top of their game

This book celebrates the often hidden histories of 50 incredible female pioneers in sports, from Betty Chapman, the first Black woman to be a professional softball player, to Billie Jean King, who won the Battle of the Sexes match, and Laurel Hubbard, a trans trailblazer.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 12 October 2023
Publisher: Welbeck Publishing Group

Throughout history, every woman who has donned spikes, laced up boots, and picked up a racquet has been a rebel. This explosive book aims to uncover the often hidden histories behind 50 of these incredible pioneers. From the first Black woman to be a professional softball player, Betty Chapman, to the iconic Battle of the Sexes match won by Billie Jean King, and from trans trailblazer Laurel Hubbard to Emma Raducanu's unforgettable US Open win, award-winning sports journalist Suzanne Wrack celebrates sporting giants at the absolute top of their games.

Betty Chapman made history as the first Black woman to become a professional softball player. Her remarkable journey began in the 1950s when she joined the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL), a league that provided opportunities for women to pursue their love of baseball during a time when it was largely dominated by men. Chapman's talent and determination shone through, and she quickly became a standout player, earning the nickname "The Black Widow." She played for the AAGPBL for several seasons, breaking records and inspiring other women to pursue their dreams in sports.

Another pioneering woman in sports is Billie Jean King, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest tennis players of all time. King's career was marked by her determination, skill, and her fight for gender equality in sports. In 1973, she faced off against Bobby Riggs in the highly anticipated "Battle of the Sexes" match, which became a landmark event in the history of women's sports. The match was a test of King's physical and mental strength, and she emerged victorious, defeating Riggs in three sets.

Laurel Hubbard is another trailblazer who made significant contributions to the world of sports. She is a transgender woman who competed in the Olympic Games and broke records in the field of weightlifting. Hubbard's journey to the Olympics was not easy, as she faced discrimination and challenges throughout her career. However, she persevered and became a symbol of hope and inspiration for transgender athletes around the world.

Emma Raducanu's US Open win in 2021 was an unforgettable moment in the world of tennis. At just 18 years old, Raducanu became the youngest woman to win the US Open in over 100 years. Her impressive performance on the court was matched by her humility and grace off the court, and she quickly became a fan favorite. Raducanu's success story highlighted the potential for young athletes to achieve great things and inspired a new generation of tennis players.

These women, along with many others, have made significant contributions to the world of sports. Their stories remind us of the power of perseverance, determination, and the pursuit of one's dreams. They have broken barriers and paved the way for future generations of athletes, and their impact on sports will be felt for years to come.

In conclusion, the women who have donned spikes, laced up boots, and picked up a racquet have been rebels throughout history. Their stories of determination, skill, and resilience inspire us to push ourselves and pursue our passions, no matter what obstacles we may face. This book serves as a tribute to these incredible pioneers and a reminder of the importance of gender equality in sports.

Weight: 582g
Dimension: 157 x 218 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781802792256