Billie Jean King

Legendary Athlete

Tennis Champion / Social Activist / Gender Equality Pioneer

Born: November 22, 1943 | 39 Grand Slam Titles

Athlete Activist Author

EnglishBro Tip: Billie Jean King is one of the most influential figures in sports history, known for both her athletic achievements and social activism.

Tennis Career

1Grand Slam Titles

Won 39 Grand Slam titles (12 singles, 16 women's doubles, 11 mixed doubles).

2Battle of the Sexes

Defeated Bobby Riggs in the historic 1973 "Battle of the Sexes" match.

3Wimbledon Champion

Won 20 Wimbledon titles, including 6 singles championships.

4World No.1 Ranking

Held the world No.1 ranking in women's tennis for 6 years.

5Fed Cup Captain

Captained the U.S. Fed Cup team to multiple victories.

EnglishBro Tip: King's athletic achievements were matched by her fight for equal prize money and opportunities in tennis.

Activism & Legacy

1Gender Equality

Founded the Women's Tennis Association and Women's Sports Foundation.

2LGBTQ+ Rights

Became one of the first openly gay athletes in professional sports.

3Equal Pay

Championed equal prize money for women at the US Open (1973).

Key Achievements

1Presidential Medal of Freedom

Awarded by President Obama in 2009 for her advocacy work.

2International Tennis Hall of Fame

Inducted in 1987 for her contributions to tennis.

3National Women's Hall of Fame

Recognized for her impact on women's rights and sports.

4Billie Jean King Cup

The Fed Cup was renamed in her honor in 2020.

EnglishBro Tip: King's legacy extends beyond sports - she fundamentally changed perceptions of women athletes and LGBTQ+ individuals in professional sports.