Renée Richards, an ophthalmologist and former amateur tennis player, became a central figure in sports history in 1977 when she challenged the United States Tennis Association for the right to compete in the women’s draw of the US Open. Following her gender-affirming surgery, Richards sought legal representation to secure her eligibility, eventually turning to the prominent and controversial attorney Roy Cohn.

Cohn, who was previously known for his role as a prosecutor during the anti-communist 'Red Scare' and for his later mentorship of Donald Trump, led the legal team that successfully argued on Richards's behalf. The new biography, 'Finding Renée Richards: The Groundbreaking Story,' examines this period of her life, highlighting the intersection of her athletic aspirations and the legal landscape of the 1970s. The book frames these events as a significant chapter in the history of transgender inclusion in sports, noting the unusual alliance between Richards and a lawyer known for his conservative political ties.