Billie Jean King Net Worth

Billie Jean King: A Tennis Legend

Billie Jean King, the American retired World No. 1 professional tennis player, is a name that will forever be etched in the history books of tennis. With a net worth of $20 million, King is considered one of the best tennis players of all time, having won an impressive total of 39 Grand Slam titles: 12 singles, 11 mixed doubles, and 16 women’s doubles. Her contributions to the sport go beyond her remarkable achievements on the court, as she has been a fierce advocate for gender equality throughout her career.

What is Billie Jean King Known For?

Billie Jean King is best known for her iconic victory in the famous “Battle of the Sexes” tennis match in 1973. At the age of 29, she faced off against 55-year-old Bobby Riggs, who claimed that even at his advanced age, he could beat any female tennis player. King’s resounding win in that match became a turning point for gender equality in sports, as she shattered stereotypes and showcased the immense talent and skill possessed by female athletes.

King’s impact extended far beyond that historic match. She was a trailblazer in promoting equality within the sport of tennis. She founded both the Women’s Sports Foundation and the Women’s Tennis Association, two organizations that have played vital roles in advancing women’s opportunities and rights in sports. As the captain of the U.S. team, she led her country to numerous victories in prestigious events such as the Federation Cup and the Wightman Cup.

Early Life and Education

Born as Billie Jean Moffitt on November 22, 1943, in Long Beach, California, King grew up in a conservative household. Her parents, Betty and Bill, encouraged her to participate in sports from a young age. At the age of 11, after her parents suggested she play a more “ladylike” sport, she started playing tennis. She took free lessons at Long Beach’s public courts and began honing her skills with her first racket, which she bought with $8 she had saved up.

King’s talent and dedication led her to join the women’s tennis circuit while attending Los Angeles State College. In 1961, at the age of 17, she teamed up with Karen Hantze Susman to become the youngest duo to win the women’s doubles title at Wimbledon. This success was just the beginning of a remarkable career that would firmly establish her as one of the greatest tennis players of all time.

Career Achievements

Throughout her career, Billie Jean King’s list of achievements is extensive. She dominated women’s tennis in the late 196s and early 197s, reaching World No. 1 and winning multiple Grand Slam titles. King secured victory at Wimbledon in the singles competition in 1966, 1967, and 1968. She also won the U.S. Open in 1972 and the Australian Open in 1968.

In addition to her individual accomplishments, King’s impact on the sport went beyond her playing days. She co-founded World TeamTennis (WTT) with her then-husband Larry King and served as the Commissioner of WTT after retiring from competitive tennis, becoming the first female commissioner in sports history.

Off the court, King’s advocacy for gender equality and equal prize money resulted in significant changes within the sport of tennis. Her strong stance against inequality led to a groundbreaking decision when she refused to participate in the 1973 U.S. Open unless the prize money for male and female players was equal. Her efforts paved the way for future generations of female tennis players to enjoy equal opportunities and recognition in the sport.

Personal Life and Legacy

Billie Jean King’s personal life has also been marked by significant moments. In a courageous move, she came out as being attracted to women following her split from her first husband, Larry King. She subsequently fell in love with her doubles partner, Ilana Kloss, whom she married in 2018.

King’s impact and legacy extend beyond the tennis court. She has received numerous awards and honors throughout her lifetime for her contributions to both sports and society. In 2009, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama, recognizing her role as a champion for gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights. Her name lives on through the naming of prestigious institutions such as the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City.

As we reflect on Billie Jean King’s illustrious career, it is clear that her legacy goes far beyond her extraordinary achievements in tennis. She has been a tireless advocate for equality and has used her platform to break barriers and inspire generations of athletes. With her indomitable spirit and determination, Billie Jean King has left an indelible mark on the world of tennis and continues to be an inspiration for all.