How Billie Jean King Shaped the Future: A Legacy Timeline

A detailed timeline of the impact and legacy of Billie Jean King across different fields.

Billie Jean King is a celebrated American former world No. 1 tennis player. Her illustrious career boasts 39 Grand Slam titles, comprising 12 in singles, 16 in women's doubles, and 11 in mixed doubles. Beyond her individual achievements, King contributed significantly to team success, representing the United States on seven victorious Federation Cup teams and nine Wightman Cup teams. She's also a champion for gender equality in sports and society.

Sections (7)

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

1971: King becomes first female tennis player to earn $100,000 a year

In 1971, Billie Jean King became the first female tennis player to earn $100,000 in a year, resulting in a congratulatory phone call from President Richard M. Nixon. In August, King won the indoor Houston tournament and the U.S. Women's Clay Court Championships in Indianapolis. She then won the US Open without losing a set.

1972: Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year

In 1972, Billie Jean King was the joint winner, with John Wooden, of the Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year award.

September 20, 1973: The Battle of the Sexes

On September 20, 1973, Billie Jean King defeated Bobby Riggs in the "Battle of the Sexes" match at the Houston Astrodome. The match was viewed by a large audience and is considered significant for women's tennis recognition.

1973: Battle of the Sexes

In 1973, at the age of 29, Billie Jean King won the "Battle of the Sexes" tennis match against 55-year-old Bobby Riggs. She was also the founder of the Women's Tennis Association and the Women's Sports Foundation, and was instrumental in persuading Virginia Slims to sponsor women's tennis.

1975: Time Persons of the Year

In 1975, Billie Jean King was one of the Time Persons of the Year.

1987: Inducted into International Tennis Hall of Fame

In 1987, Billie Jean King was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame.

1990: Inducted into National Women's Hall of Fame

In 1990, Billie Jean King was inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame.

2006: USTA National Tennis Center Renamed

In 2006, the USTA National Tennis Center in New York City was renamed the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.

2008: Publication of "Pressure is a Privilege"

In 2008, Billie Jean King published the book "Pressure is a Privilege: Lessons I've Learned from Life and the Battle of the Sexes."

Pressure is a Privilege: Lessons I've Learned from Life and the Battle of the Sexes by Billie Jean King (July 22 2008)

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2008: Opening of Sports Museum of America

In 2008, the Sports Museum of America opened, featuring the Billie Jean King International Women's Sports Center, a comprehensive women's sports hall of fame and exhibit. King is a member of the Board of Honorary Trustees for the museum.

2010: Fed Cup Award of Excellence

In 2010, Billie Jean King was bestowed with the Fed Cup Award of Excellence.

December 2013: Appointment to 2014 Winter Olympics Delegation

In December 2013, US President Barack Obama appointed Billie Jean King and Caitlin Cahow to represent the United States at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia. This was seen as a signal on gay rights, but King later withdrew due to her mother's illness.