The movie Battle of the Sexes, which tells the story of Billie Jean King's famous match against Bobby Riggs, is released in the UK this week - coinciding with the legend's 74th birthday.

Below is a compilation of related tributes to the woman who revolutionized tennis.

At a movie screening in London's Leicester Square, former British No.1 Annabel Croft recalled her first encounters with King.

"I can honestly say she is the one of the most special individuals I’ve met in my life," she said. "I can say she is one of the most inspirational women I’ve ever met, but she’s also one of the most giving people. A few people are prepared to do their own thing in life but also give back to so many others. And she was someone who used to take the time to come up to me – and I was only young, I was 15, but she took time and spent time inspiring me, offering me tips and advice."

'She is the one of the most special individuals I’ve met in my life.'

- Annabel Croft

Former player and TV commentator John Barrett, who also attended the screening, added: "Undoubtedly it was the catalyst for women’s liberation, not just in sport but everywhere and Billie Jean was the leader. She had a mission in life; she wanted to make life easier for women in all fields and the way she could do that is through her tennis.

"She was a great champion, she was very well respected as a player. I think she was a pioneer."

King and the actress who plays her, Emma Stone, have been on the promotional circuit together talking about the match and the movie.

Stone suggested in one interview that King should consider running for political office - and joked that she could even look as far as stepping into the White House.

In an interview with Ross King on the UK's Lorraine show, King mentioned that she had some political ambitions in the 1970s but opted not to stand due to the potential scrutiny of her personal life - and Stone was quick to say that it wasn't too late.

"You've got my vote!" said the 29-year-old. "You don't have to lay the ground work any more! You can run for president, and you can win!"

On the same show, Billie Jean King talked about her pride that today's generation of players can win equal prize money, mentioning Sloane Stephens's delight at her US Open triumph this year.

"Every time we see the youngsters having this life, this was our dream for them - they are living our dream," she said.

King shared on social media that she celebrated her birthday with her brother Randy, and partner Ilana Kloss.