Major Controversies Surrounding Billie Jean King: A Detailed Timeline

Public opinion and media debates around Billie Jean King—discover key moments of controversy.

Billie Jean King, a former world No. 1 American tennis player, secured 39 Grand Slam titles across singles, women's doubles, and mixed doubles. King's contributions extended to team victories, representing the United States in seven Federation Cups and nine Wightman Cups. Beyond her athletic achievements, she has been a prominent figure in advocating for gender equality in sports and society.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

September 1970: Pacific Southwest Open and Women's Rights Advocacy

In September 1970, Billie Jean King advocated for better pay for female tennis players. At the Pacific Southwest Open, the prize money for men was significantly higher than for women, leading King and other women to boycott the tournament and organize the women-only Houston Virginia Slims invitational. This helped launch a series of women-only tournaments.

1971: King begins affair with Marilyn Barnett

In 1971, King began an affair with her secretary, Marilyn Barnett.

1971: King's Abortion Made Public

In 1971, King had an abortion that was made public in a Ms. magazine article. Larry revealed Billie Jean's abortion without consulting her.

1972: Early Season Losses and Admission of Cramps

In early 1972, Billie Jean King admitted that cramps associated with an abortion caused her to retire from a match with Chris Evert in St. Petersburg.

March 1977: King's Controversy and Tournament Win

In March 1977, Billie Jean King requested a wild card entry to the Virginia Slims Championships and chose to play in the Lionel Cup tournament, drawing criticism for the tournament allowing Renée Richards, a transgender athlete, to participate. King ultimately won the tournament.

1979: Kings ask Barnett to leave their house

In 1979, the Kings asked Barnett to leave their house, but she refused and threatened to leak sensitive documents.

May 1981: Barnett sues the Kings

In May 1981, Marilyn Barnett sued the Kings in a palimony lawsuit after a suicide attempt. Billie Jean acknowledged the relationship shortly afterward, causing her to lose endorsements.

December 1981: Court Order for Barnett to Leave House

In December 1981, a court order stipulated that Barnett leave the house. Barnett's threats to publish private correspondence between her and King in exchange for money were considered close to extortion.

November 1982: Barnett's Palimony Suit Dismissed

In November 1982, Barnett's palimony suit was thrown out of court.

1982: Claim of Intentionally Losing Match

At the beginning of the year, Billie Jean King claimed in her 1982 autobiography that she intentionally lost a match in Long Beach due to an argument with her husband.

1999: King elected to the board of Philip Morris Incorporated

In 1999, King was elected to serve on the board of directors of Philip Morris Incorporated, which garnered criticism from anti-tobacco groups. She no longer serves in that capacity.