Billie Jean King, renowned tennis champion and advocate for women's rights, is poised to make history once again. The U.S. Congress has approved legislation to award her the Congressional Gold Medal, making her the first individual female athlete to receive this prestigious honor.
Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick and Mikie Sherrill announced the passage of the bipartisan bill in the House of Representatives, following its unanimous approval in the Senate. The legislation now awaits President Biden's signature.
King's remarkable career includes 39 Grand Slam titles and numerous groundbreaking achievements. In 1973, she became the first female athlete to earn over $100,000 in prize money in a single year, highlighting her impact on the sport's financial landscape. That same year, King founded the Women's Tennis Association (WTA), solidifying her role as a leader in women's sports.
The timing of this recognition is significant, as the bill was introduced in September 2023, marking the 50th anniversary of King's iconic "Battle of the Sexes" match against Bobby Riggs. This event, which remains the most-watched tennis match in history, symbolized a pivotal moment in the fight for gender equality in sports.
King's influence extends far beyond the tennis court. She was instrumental in advocating for the passage of Title IX, which prohibits sex discrimination in educational programs. In 1974, she founded the Women's Sports Foundation, further cementing her commitment to advancing opportunities for women in athletics.
"Her lifetime of advocacy and hard work changed the landscape for women and girls on the court, in the classroom, and the workplace."
The Congressional Gold Medal adds to King's impressive list of accolades. She was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1987 and named one of the "100 Most Important Americans of the 20th Century" by Life magazine. In 2009, she received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States.
King's impact on society has been multifaceted. As an openly gay athlete, she became a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. She also founded World TeamTennis, a mixed-gender professional tennis league, in 1974, further promoting equality in the sport.
The Congressional Gold Medal has previously been awarded to notable athletes such as Jackie Robinson, Roberto Clemente, and Jack Nicklaus. King's inclusion in this esteemed group underscores her significant contributions to both sports and social progress.
As of September 2024, it has been 51 years since the "Battle of the Sexes" match, yet King's influence continues to resonate. The USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, home to the US Open, stands as a testament to her enduring legacy as the first woman to have a major sports venue named in her honor.
King's journey from tennis prodigy to global icon exemplifies the power of perseverance and dedication to social change. As she prepares to receive this historic recognition, her impact on gender equality, sports, and human rights remains as relevant and inspiring as ever.