11 Mind-Blowing Facts About Billie Jean King

1. Who is Billie Jean King?

Billie Jean King is an American former world No. 1 tennis player born on November 22, 1943, in Long Beach, California.

2. How Many Grand Slam Titles Did Billie Jean King Win?

Billie Jean King won a total of 39 Grand Slam titles, including 12 singles, 16 women's doubles, and 11 mixed doubles titles.

3. What is Billie Jean King's Record at Wimbledon?

Billie Jean King holds a record 20 Wimbledon titles, including six singles, 10 women's doubles, and four mixed doubles titles.

4. What Was the Significance of the 'Battle of the Sexes' Match?

The 'Battle of the Sexes' match in 1973 was a historic event where Billie Jean King defeated Bobby Riggs, proving that women's tennis deserved recognition and respect.

5. How Did Billie Jean King Impact Women's Tennis?

Billie Jean King's achievements and contributions to tennis paved the way for future generations of female players, breaking down barriers and demanding equal treatment and recognition.

6. What Was Billie Jean King's First Major Singles Title?

Billie Jean King won her first major singles title at Wimbledon in 1966, a feat she repeated in 1967 and 1968.

7. How Much Money Did Billie Jean King Earn in a Single Season?

In 1971, Billie Jean King became the first female athlete in any sport to earn more than $100,000 in a single season.

8. What Was the Name of the Tour Founded by Billie Jean King?

Billie Jean King helped establish the Virginia Slims Tour, which was a major professional women's tennis circuit.

9. What Was Billie Jean King's Role in the Women's Tennis Association?

Billie Jean King served as the first president of the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) in 1973, playing a crucial role in advocating for equal pay and recognition for women's tennis.

10. How Did Billie Jean King Contribute to the Fight for Equal Pay in Tennis?

Billie Jean King was a vocal advocate for equal prize money in tennis. Her efforts led to the U.S. Open becoming the first major tournament to offer equal prizes to male and female players in 1973.

11. What Awards Did Billie Jean King Receive for Her Contributions?

Billie Jean King was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009, the nation's highest civilian honor, for her contributions to tennis and her advocacy for women's rights.