Billie Jean King talks about being played by Emma Stone in 'Battle

The new film “Battle of the Sexes” dramatizes the 1973 tennis match between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs. Now King herself joins TODAY to talk about the movie, which she says has both funny moments and tense ones. She says the real-life match was “so emotional,” pointing out that Title IX had been passed only the year before. She also says she “respected” Riggs: “He was one of my heroes.”

Emma Stone Dominates the Tennis Court

Emma Stone wears tennis whites to 'Battle of the Sexes' premiere

Emma Stone to Play Billie Jean King in 'Battle of the Sexes': Photo 3511511, Billie Jean King, Emma Stone, Movies Photos

Emma Stone and Billie Jean King at US Open

Emma Stone and Billie Jean King arriving for the Battle of The Sexes Los Angeles Premiere held at the Regency Village Theatre, Los Angeles Stock Photo - Alamy

Battle of the Sexes: A Guide to the Legendary Tennis Match Between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs

Emma Stone is Billie Jean King, Steve Carell is Bobby Riggs in Battle of the Sexes trailer

Emma Stone channels Billie Jean King as she jogs on set of Battle Of The Sexes

Billie Jean King and Costume Designer Mary Zophres on That Famous Tennis Dress from the “Battle of the Sexes”