A well-known American tennis player and sports promoter from the middle of the 20th century, Bobby Riggs is frequently remembered for his memorable quotes and vibrant personality. The significance of showing respect to one's rivals was among the most noteworthy lessons he taught.

When Riggs faced Billie Jean King in 1973, he had to learn this lesson the hard way. Prior to their famous "Battle of the Sexes," Riggs boasted that men were better at tennis than women, especially older men like himself. He played down the skills of female players, including King, and declared victory with confidence.

But after King beat him in straight sets, Riggs saw that he had underestimated his opponent's talent and willpower. He learned a valuable lesson from this experience: never underestimate your rivals, no matter how weak or disadvantageous they may seem. One should always be on the lookout for hidden strengths in others, much like an iceberg that looks small from above but has a large, invisible portion below the surface.

This quotation captures Riggs' development as a person and emphasizes the general knowledge that it's important to completely recognize your opponents' abilities in any contest or challenge. It exhorts people to refrain from conceit and to remain alert for opportunities or threats that may arise from unexpected sources.