As one of the 20th century's most respected women, Billie Jean King has long
been a champion for social change and equality. King created new inroads for
women in and out of sports during her legendary career and she continues to
make her mark today. Among her many accomplishments are:
Named one of the "100 Most Important Americans of the 20th Century" by Life
Magazine in 1990.
Won 39 Grand Slam singles, doubles and mixed doubles tennis titles, including a
record 20 titles at Wimbledon.
Was one of nine players who broke away from the tennis establishment and
accepted $1 contracts from tennis promoter Gladys Heldman in Houston. The
revolt led to the birth of women's professional tennis and the formation of the
Virginia Slims Tour and Women's Tennis Association.
Empowered women and educated men when she defeated Bobby Riggs in one of the
greatest moments in sports history - the Battle of the Sexes in 1973. This
match is remembered for its effect on society and its contribution to the
women's movement.
Founded the Women's Tennis Association (1973), the Women's Sports Foundation
(1974), and Women's Sports Magazine (1974).
Co-founded World TeamTennis (1974), the groundbreaking co-ed professional
tennis league and founded the World TeamTennis Recreational League, one of the
most popular recreational tennis formats in the U.S.
Ranked No. 5 on Sports Illustrated's "Top 40 Athletes" list for significantly
altering or elevating sports the last four decades (1994).
Continues to be a leader in the fight for equality and recognition in the GLBT
community, and has been honored by many of the leading GLBT organizations,
including the GLAAD, Lambda Legal Foundation and the San Francisco GLBT
Historical Society.
Honored on August 28, 2006, when the National Tennis Center, home of the U. S.
Open, was renamed the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in honor of
King's contributions to tennis, sports and society both on and off the court.
She continues to be involved with the USTA and is currently Chair of the Tennis
in the Parks Committee.
Honored on October 17, 2006, when the National Sports Museum and the Women's
Sports Foundation announced that the Billie Jean King International Women's
Sports Center, the nation's first permanent, comprehensive museum collection
dedicated to women's sports, will be housed at the National Sports Museum when
it opens in New York City in 2008.
Serves currently on the boards of the Women's Sports Foundation and the Elton
John AIDS Foundation. In 2006 she received several honors including Glamour
Magazine's Lifetime Achievement Award, the National Equality Award from the
Human Rights Campaign and was one of the inaugural inductees into the
California Hall of Fame.
*In Partnership with IMG
