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, is considered one of the greatest of all time. She accumulated 39 Grand Slam titles across singles, women's doubles, and mixed doubles. King also contributed to the United States' victories in seven Federation Cups and nine Wightman Cups. Beyond her athletic achievements, King is known for her advocacy for gender equality in sports and society.

Sections (7)

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

1967: King Criticizes USLTA "Shamateurism"

In 1967, Billie Jean King criticized the United States Lawn Tennis Association (USLTA) for its "shamateurism", where top players were paid under the table, which she argued was corrupt and elitist.

September 1970: Pacific Southwest Open and Houston Virginia Slims invitational

In September 1970, at the Pacific Southwest Open, the prize money for men was $12,500, while for women it was $1,500. Billie Jean King and other women did not play in the tournament because of the budget differences, and they were willing to take the risk of expulsion from the U.S. Lawn Tennis Association. King and the other women organized the women-only Houston Virginia Slims invitational.

1971: Affair with Marilyn Barnett begins

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

1971: King has an abortion

In 1971, Billie Jean King had an abortion, which was later revealed in a Ms. magazine article by her husband Larry without her consent.

1972: Admission of Abortion-Related Cramps

In early 1972, Billie Jean King admitted that leg cramps associated with an abortion caused her to retire from a match with Chris Evert after splitting the first two sets.

March 1977: King's Controversial Tournament Choice

In March 1977, Billie Jean King requested a wild card entry to the Virginia Slims Championships but then played the Lionel Cup tournament in San Antonio, Texas, which was criticized by the WTA due to the inclusion of Renée Richards, a transgender athlete. Chris Evert, Martina Navratilova, and Betty Stöve criticized King's decision.

1979: Barnett asked to leave house

In 1979, the Kings asked Marilyn Barnett to leave their Malibu house, but she refused, threatening to leak private documents.

May 1981: Palimony lawsuit filed

In May 1981, Marilyn Barnett sued Billie Jean and Larry King for half of their income and their Malibu house after Barnett attempted suicide. This suit followed Barnett's refusal to leave the Kings' house and threats to release private correspondence.

December 1981: Court order issued

In December 1981, a court order stipulated that Marilyn Barnett leave the Kings' house. The court also noted that Barnett's threats to publish private correspondence in exchange for money bordered on extortion.

November 1982: Barnett's palimony suit dismissed

In November 1982, Marilyn Barnett's palimony lawsuit against Billie Jean and Larry King was thrown out of court.

1982: Claim of intentionally losing a match

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

1999: King Elected to Philip Morris Board

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

2002: King Dismisses Capriati from Fed Cup Team

In 2002, Billie Jean King dismissed Jennifer Capriati from the Fed Cup team for violating rules against practicing with personal coaches, sparking controversy.