Michelle Obama calls for equal pay for female athletes. ‘Let us remember that all of this is far bigger than a champion’s paycheck’

(Credit: Jean Catuffe—GC Images)

Persistent pay gaps in the world of sports are a sign of “how women are seen and valued in this world,” Michelle Obama said on Monday, as she urged the public to stand up for equal pay.

As the U.S. Open kicked off, the former First Lady spoke to the crowd at New York’s Arthur Ashe Stadium, where a special event was held to honor tennis icon Billie Jean King.