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 is a celebrated American former world No. 1 tennis player, renowned for her exceptional achievements and advocacy. She secured 39 Grand Slam titles, distributed across singles, women's doubles, and mixed doubles. King also contributed significantly to team success, representing the United States in seven Federation Cups and nine Wightman Cups, consistently demonstrating her skill and competitive spirit on the global stage.

Sections (7)

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

1965: US No. 1 Ranking Controversy

In 1965, Billie Jean King lost to Margaret Court in the U.S. Championships final, and was ranked as co-U.S. No. 1 with Nancy Richey Gunter due to a vote that overruled the ranking committee's recommendation.

1967: Criticism of USLTA

In 1967, Billie Jean King criticized the United States Lawn Tennis Association (USLTA) for "shamateurism", arguing that the practice of paying top players under the table was corrupt and elitist.

1971: Affair with Marilyn Barnett

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

1971: King's abortion made public

In 1971, Billie Jean King had an abortion that was made public in a Ms. magazine article after Larry revealed it without her consent.

1972: US Open Prize Money Inequality

In 1972, Billie Jean King won the US Open but received US$15,000 less than the men's champion, Ilie Năstase. She threatened to boycott the next year if prize money was not equal.

1972: King Admits Abortion Caused Retirement

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 after splitting the first two sets.

1979: Barnett Asked to Leave

In 1979, Billie Jean and Larry King asked Marilyn Barnett to leave their house, leading to a threat to leak sensitive documents.

May 1981: Palimony Lawsuit

In May 1981, Marilyn Barnett sued the Kings for half their income and the Malibu house, leading Billie Jean King to publicly acknowledge the relationship.

December 1981: Court Order Regarding Barnett

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 was considered extortion.

November 1982: Barnett's palimony suit dismissed

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

1982: King Claims Intentional Loss

In her 1982 autobiography, Billie Jean King claimed she intentionally lost a match in Long Beach to Françoise Dürr because of an argument with her husband.

1999: Board of Directors of Philip Morris Incorporated

In 1999, Billie Jean King was elected to serve on the board of directors of Philip Morris Incorporated, which garnered criticism from anti-tobacco groups.

2002: Dismissal of Capriati from Fed Cup Team

In 2002, Billie Jean King dismissed Jennifer Capriati from the Fed Cup team for violating rules about personal coaches. This decision was met with mixed reactions.