Billie Jean King is an American former professional tennis player with an estimated net worth of $20 million. She is considered one of the greatest players in the history of women’s tennis and was a pioneer for gender equality in sports.
As of May 2023, Billie Jean King’s net worth is estimated at around $20 million.
King first rose to fame while competing on the US National Tennis Team during her teenage years and won her first Grand Slam singles title at 15.
After that, she became a major star in women’s tennis, winning 12 Grand Slam singles titles, 16 Grand Slam doubles, and 11 Grand Slam mixed doubles titles throughout her career.
This article will break down Billie Jean King’s net worth and her influence on women’s sports and the world of tennis.
Table of Contents
Early Life
King was born on November 22, 1943, in Long Beach, California, to parents Betty and Bill Moffitt. She is the brother of Randall “Randy” James Moffitt, a Major League Baseball pitcher. Her mother encouraged her to play tennis from an early age, and King started playing at 10.
Her athletic prowess was evident early on, as she served as shortstop on a team that won the Long Beach Softball Championship at just ten years old.
She quickly rose in the rankings, winning several junior titles and becoming a nationally-ranked player by age 16.
She continued her success in college and became the first female athlete to receive a full athletic scholarship.
Career
Billie Jean King’s career is one of the most decorated in women’s tennis history.
Rise to National Fame
King won her first Grand Slam singles title at the 1967 US Open and became one of the most recognizable faces in women’s tennis. She went on to win 12 more singles titles throughout her career, including 6 Wimbledon titles and 4 French Open titles.
She also won 16 doubles titles, including 8 Wimbledon and 6 French Open doubles titles. King was also known for her outspokenness and activism, as she fought to promote gender equality in sports throughout her career.
College Career and First Female Athlete Scholarship
King began her college career at Los Angeles State College of Applied Arts and Sciences (now California State University, Los Angeles) in 1959.
During her time there, she was a member of the women’s tennis team and led the school to a national championship in 1962.
The same year she was awarded a full athletic scholarship, making her the first female athlete in any sport to receive such an honor from an American college or university.
She took advantage of the opportunity and graduated with honors in 1963 with a degree in physical education.
Throughout her time at LA State College, King won 39 consecutive singles matches and was named the Most Out
Professional Career Highlights
Billie Jean King won 12 Grand Slam singles titles throughout her career, including 6 Wimbledon and 4 French Open titles.
She was the first female player to win three major championships in a single season (1971), which she repeated in 1973. King also routinely represented the USA in the Federation Cup and Wightman Cup.
She is also credited with winning the most hardcore 5-set matches in the history of women’s tennis, with a total of 27. She also holds the record for most Grand Slam doubles titles, with 16 (8 Wimbledon and 6 French Open).
The Battle of the Sexes
Perhaps the most memorable moment in King’s career came in 1973 when she faced off against former men’s world No. 1 player Bobby Riggs in a legendary tennis match known as the “Battle of the Sexes.”
In a hugely hyped and highly publicized event, King won in straight sets and proved that women could compete with men in sports.
Her win marked a pivotal moment in the history of women’s sports and is widely regarded as an essential landmark in the fight for gender equality.
Influence on Women’s Sports and the World of Tennis
Billie Jean King was a pioneer for gender equality in sports, and her influence can still be felt today. She is credited with creating the first professional women’s tennis tour and promoting equal pay for female athletes.
She also founded the Women’s Sports Foundation to promote female participation in sports. Her legacy lives on in the world of tennis, as she was the first female inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1987.
Billie Jean King’s accomplishments on and off the court make her one of the most influential figures in women’s sports history. Her hard work and dedication to promoting gender equality have paved the way for generations of female athletes.
Retirement from Professional Play & Later Years
After retiring from competitive tennis in 1983, King dedicated her time advocating for gender equity and social justice. She served as a consultant to the USTA and worked with organizations such as the Women’s Sports Foundation and the National Coalition of Girls’ Schools.
In addition, she was appointed to serve on President Clinton’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, as well as other committees dedicated to promoting fitness.
In 2009, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Obama for her dedication to sports and social justice.
She is currently a Trustee Emeritus of World TeamTennis and serves on various boards related to education, health care, and women’s rights.
Billie Jean King continues to advocate for social and economic justice, using her voice and influence to inspire change.
She is an example of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication, and she serves as a role model for young women worldwide.
Legacy of Billie Jean King
Today, Billie Jean King’s legacy lives on in the world of sports. She is remembered as a pioneer for gender equity, a tireless advocate for social justice, and an inspiration to female athletes everywhere.
Her accomplishments have made her one of the most influential figures in women’s sports history.
Her commitment to gender equality and social justice has made her a powerful role model for generations of women. In addition, as the pioneering spirit behind professional tennis, she has opened doors for countless female athletes to pursue their dreams.
Billie Jean King’s legacy is an inspiring reminder that anything is possible when you are willing to work hard and never give up on your dreams. She exemplifies what can be achieved through determination, hard work, and dedication.
Billie Jean King Cup
The Billie Jean King Cup is an international team competition established in 2019 to honor her legacy and celebrate the spirit of gender equality.
The tournament features 12 teams worldwide, including four men’s, four women’s, and four mixed-gender teams.
The WTA and the International Tennis Federation hosted the tournament, and it is the first international team event to feature mixed-gender competitions.
The Billie Jean King Cup is a tribute to Billie Jean King’s pioneering spirit and commitment to promoting gender equality in sports.
Billie Jean King Net Worth 2023
As of May 2023, Billie Jean King’s net worth is estimated at around $20 million.
She made most of her money from her professional tennis career, endorsements, and business ventures.
She has also earned a significant amount of money from speaking engagements and appearances on television shows. In addition, she serves on various boards related to education, health care, and women’s rights.
Billie Jean King has used her wealth to invest in causes she believes in and to promote gender equity and social justice.
She exemplifies how hard work and dedication can lead to great success and inspire others to reach their dreams.
Personal Life
Billie Jean King is married to Ilana Kross, her former doubles partner. She was previously married to Larry King, and the couple had two sons. She devotes her free time to charity work and serves on various boards related to education, health care, and women’s rights.
Although she is not Justin Thomas, she is an avid golfer and tennis player. She has also served as a consultant for the USTA and worked with organizations such as the Women’s Sports Foundation and the National Coalition of Girls’ Schools.
She’s also supported the Elton John AIDS Foundation.
Women’s Tennis Association and Women’s Sports Foundation
The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) was founded in 1973 and is the leading organization for professional female tennis players. The organization promotes gender equity, encourages sports participation, and supports the growth of women’s tennis worldwide.
The WTA fosters relationships between players, coaches, fans, tournaments, media, and sponsors.
Billie Jean King serves as the Honorary President of the WTA and is involved in several initiatives related to gender equity, leadership, and global development.
Billie Jean King founded the Women’s Sports Foundation (WSF) in 1974 to advance girls’ and women’s sports and physical activity participation.
The WSF works to create opportunities for women in sports, promote leadership among female athletes, and use sports as a platform to empower girls worldwide.
The WSF has significantly contributed to gender equity in sports through its initiatives, research projects, advocacy work, and educational programs. Billie Jean King is actively involved with the WSF and is a leader in the fight for gender equity in sports.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Billie Jean King’s Wife?
Billie Jean King is married to Ilana Kloss, her former doubles partner.
Who are Billie Jean King’s children?
Billie Jean King has two sons, Randy and Brent.
How does Serena Williams’ net worth compare to Billie Jean King’s?
Serena Williams has a net worth of $225 million, while Billie Jean King’s net worth is estimated to be around $20 million.
How does Chris Evert’s net worth compare to Billie Jean King’s?
Chris Evert has a net worth of approximately $50 million, while Billie Jean King’s net worth is estimated to be around $20 million.
How does Martina Navratilova’s net worth compare to Billie Jean King’s?
Martina Navratilova has a net worth of $25 million, while Billie Jean King’s net worth is estimated to be around $20 million.
Key Takeaway
Now that you know Billie Jean King’s net worth and how she built it, let’s look at the most important lesson from her journey.
Reinvent The Wheel If You Have To
Billie Jean King was a pioneer in her field and wasn’t afraid to challenge the status quo. She pushed boundaries, created opportunities for herself and others, and revolutionized how people think about gender equality in sports.
Her success is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. She has inspired generations of young women to dream big and strive for greatness, no matter their circumstances.