Billie Jean King | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : January 07, 2025

Who is Billie Jean King?

Billie Jean King, born on November 22, 1943, in Long Beach, California, is a pioneering figure in women's tennis and an enduring advocate for gender equality in sports. By 1967, she had risen to the top of women's tennis, becoming the world's No. 1 player. King is perhaps best known for her pivotal role in the 1973 "Battle of the Sexes," where she defeated former men's champion Bobby Riggs in a highly publicized match that transcended sports and highlighted issues of gender discrimination. Her victory not only solidified her status as an elite athlete but also became a symbol of the fight for women's rights in athletics.

Beyond her on-court accomplishments, King has been a formidable advocate for equal pay in sports. In 1970, she joined the newly formed Virginia Slims Tour and, just a year later, became the first female athlete to earn over $100,000 in a single year. In 1973, she spearheaded the establishment of the Women’s Tennis Association, demanding equal prize money for women and men. King's activism has also extended to LGBTQ+ rights; she was the first prominent female athlete to publicly come out as gay, striking down barriers and becoming a torchbearer for the community, all while maintaining her influential presence in tennis and sports advocacy.

Early Life and Education

Billie Jean King was born on November 22, 1943, in Long Beach, California, as Billie Jean Moffitt. Growing up in a family that valued athletics, her father Bill was a former basketball player who turned to firefighting, while her mother Betty excelled in swimming. King’s competitive spirit manifested early when she played shortstop in a girls' softball team that clinched the city championship. However, to align more with traditional gender expectations, her parents encouraged her to explore tennis, a shift that would ultimately change the course of her life.

King's tennis journey began at the age of 11 on public courts in Long Beach, and by 1958, she showcased her potential by winning the Southern California championship for her age group. Her dedication to the sport led her to train under notable former player Alice Marble in 1959. Throughout her college years at California State University, Los Angeles from 1961 to 1964, she juggled academics with tennis competitions, working as an instructor to support herself. It was during these formative years that King recognized the importance of rigorous practice and commitment, laying the groundwork for her remarkable future in the sport.

Emergence as a Tennis Star

Billie Jean King’s journey to tennis stardom began with her early involvement in sports, particularly softball, before her parents encouraged her to pursue tennis at the age of 11. Growing up in Long Beach, California, she quickly exhibited her athletic prowess on the public courts. King made significant strides as a young player, winning the Southern California championship in 1958 and capturing the attention of veteran player Alice Marble, who would become her coach. This mentorship marked a turning point in King’s development, preparing her for a burgeoning career in the world of tennis.

By 1961, Billie Jean King had cemented her status as a rising star by winning the Wimbledon women’s doubles title alongside Karen Hantze Susman, making headlines as the youngest pair to achieve this feat. While attending California State University, Los Angeles, King balanced her academic responsibilities with her tennis career, working as an instructor to support herself. As she refined her skills and increased her practice regimen, she quickly became a force in women’s tennis, ultimately winning her first major singles championship at Wimbledon in 1966—an accomplishment that signaled her emergence as a leading competitor in the sport.

Rise to No. 1 and Major Titles

Billie Jean King’s ascent in the world of tennis began after several years of promising play, culminating in her first major singles championship victory at Wimbledon in 1966. This victory not only solidified her status as a top contender but also marked the beginning of her dominance in women’s tennis. Following her initial triumph, she successfully defended her Wimbledon title for the next two consecutive years, showcasing her exceptional skill and determination. In addition to her singles success, King captured her first U.S. Open singles title in 1967 and claimed her only Australian Open championship in 1968, further establishing her as a leading figure in the sport.

By 1968, King had attained the prestigious ranking of the world’s No. 1 women’s tennis player after turning professional. Renowned for her remarkable speed, powerful net game, and exceptional backhand shots, she continued her winning streak throughout the early 1970s. In 1972 alone, she achieved an extraordinary feat by winning three Grand Slam titles — the U.S. Open, French Open, and Wimbledon — all in a single calendar year. This remarkable accomplishment not only showcased her athletic prowess but also paved the way for her to become one of the most iconic figures in the history of women’s sports.

The Iconic "Battle of the Sexes"

Billie Jean King, a pioneering figure in women's sports, is best known for her groundbreaking victory in the 1973 "Battle of the Sexes" against Bobby Riggs. This match was much more than just a tennis game; it represented a larger struggle for gender equality in sports and society. Riggs, a former men's champion, had aggressively promoted the match as a demonstration of male superiority, especially after his earlier win against Margaret Court. However, King’s decisive straight-set victory not only shattered the prevalent stereotypes but also galvanized support for women's sports, pushing for equal pay and opportunities.

King’s win was watched by approximately 90 million viewers, making it a global spectacle. She famously noted the immense pressure she felt to win, stating that she believed losing could set back women’s progress in sports by decades. Her triumph resonated beyond the court; it inspired countless female athletes, leading to greater recognition and support for women’s sports. King’s legacy continues to influence sports culture, as she remains an advocate for equality and has leveraged her platform to champion LGBTQ+ rights, solidifying her status as an icon of social change in addition to her athletic accomplishments.

Activism for Equal Pay and Women's Tennis

Billie Jean King, a trailblazer in women's sports, made significant strides in advocating for equal pay and recognition within tennis. In 1970, she boldly joined the Virginia Slims Tour, which catered to women's tennis, and became the first female athlete to earn over $100,000 in a single year. Yet, the stark pay discrepancies between male and female players deeply troubled her. Fueled by her passion for equality, she took dramatic actions in the early 1970s, threatening a boycott of the U.S. Open unless women received equal prize money, thus positioning the tournament as a leader in gender parity in sports.

In 1973, King cemented her legacy by founding the Women's Tennis Association (WTA), uniting female players and amplifying their voices in the sport. Under her leadership, the WTA fought fervently for equity, culminating in the U.S. Open's historic decision to offer equal prize money to both male and female competitors. King's activism not only transformed women's tennis but also inspired generations of female athletes to challenge gender norms in sports. Her relentless efforts and achievements paved the way for greater visibility, respect, and rights for women in athletics, ensuring her impact is felt far beyond the tennis court.

Personal Life: Married Life and Children

Billie Jean King married Larry King in 1965, a union that initially appeared to be a typical example of a successful marriage in the professional sports community. However, as King began to navigate her feelings regarding her sexuality, the marriage faced significant challenges. Despite their bond, King realized that her true self was not aligned with the traditional expectations of their relationship. This internal conflict led to a very public struggle, especially after a lawsuit involving her former female personal assistant and lover surfaced in 1981, ultimately prompting King to openly acknowledge her homosexuality.

In 1987, after years of personal turmoil and introspection, Billie Jean King divorced Larry King. This decision marked a significant turning point in her life, allowing her to embrace her identity more fully. Soon after, she entered into a long-term relationship with former tennis player Ilana Kloss, grounding herself in a partnership that reflected her authentic self. King has no children, but throughout her life, she has been a role model and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, using her platform to champion equality and inspire future generations.

Net Worth and Earning: Salary Overview

Billie Jean King, an iconic figure in tennis and social activism, has amassed significant wealth through her illustrious career and various endeavors. Her estimated net worth is around $20 million, demonstrating her success both on and off the court. King's earnings were not just limited to prize money; she paved the way for women's sports and fought tirelessly for equal pay, which significantly contributed to her financial stability. Throughout her career, King also capitalized on her fame with endorsements, several of which became lucrative when she positioned herself as a pioneer for gender equality in sports.

King's earning potential surged during the late 1970s, particularly after her historic victory in the "Battle of the Sexes" against Bobby Riggs in 1973. This monumental match not only drew a massive television audience but solidified her status as a household name, attracting sponsorships and appearances that translated into a substantial income. Beyond her tennis earnings, King's entrepreneurial ventures, including the founding of the Women's Tennis Association and her work with the World TeamTennis league, further diversified her revenue streams. Her commitment to activism has also led to speaking engagements and collaborations with organizations that align with her advocacy for equality and LGBTQ+ rights.