Americas · Modern Era

Who was Billie Jean King?

An American tennis champion and campaigner for gender equality who won 39 Grand Slam titles and triumphed in the 1973 "Battle of the Sexes".

Billie Jean King (1943–) is remembered as a key figure from United States, known for their role: Tennis Player.

Country / regionUnited States · Americas
Known forTennis Player
Years1943–
BornLong Beach, California, United States

Why is Billie Jean King important?

Billie Jean King stands out in history for a specific reason: Won 39 Grand Slam titles across singles, doubles and mixed doubles. Their story helps place major events, ideas, and cultural change in a wider historical context.

Key achievements

  • Won 39 Grand Slam titles across singles, doubles and mixed doubles
  • Won the 1973 "Battle of the Sexes" match against Bobby Riggs
  • Founded the Women’s Tennis Association in 1973
  • Campaigned successfully for equal prize money at the US Open

A fast fact

Billie Jean King defeated Bobby Riggs before a global television audience in the 1973 "Battle of the Sexes" exhibition match.

Legacy

King is honored as a pioneer of women’s sport and LGBTQ rights; the USTA National Tennis Center is named after her.

United Statessportstenniswomen in historymodern history

What is Billie Jean King best known for?

An American tennis champion and campaigner for gender equality who won 39 Grand Slam titles and triumphed in the 1973 "Battle of the Sexes".

When and where did Billie Jean King live?

Billie Jean King was born in Long Beach, California, United States (1943–) and is still living.

What is Billie Jean King's lasting legacy?

King is honored as a pioneer of women’s sport and LGBTQ rights; the USTA National Tennis Center is named after her.

How can I learn more about Billie Jean King?

Use this profile as a starting point, then consult a library, museum, encyclopedia, or primary-source collection for deeper study.