🏅 Billie Jean King Makes History Again: A Win for Athletes Everywhere

The tennis legend and trailblazer just became the first female athlete to be awarded the Congressional Gold Medal—one of the highest honors in the United States. This latest achievement adds to a legacy already brimming with accomplishments, both on and off the court. Known for her fierce dedication to equality in sports and beyond, Billie Jean King continues to break barriers decades after her legendary “Battle of the Sexes” victory, proving that age is just a number when it comes to making history.

King’s influence reaches far beyond her 39 Grand Slam titles, including 12 singles, 16 women's doubles, and 11 mixed doubles titles. She was not only a dominant force in tennis but also a fearless advocate for gender equality. In 1973, Billie Jean King famously defeated Bobby Riggs in the “Battle of the Sexes” match, watched by an estimated 90 million people worldwide. This victory became a turning point for women's sports, catapulting conversations around gender equality and the fight for equal pay into the mainstream.

King’s impact isn't limited to her on-court achievements. As a co-founder of the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) in 1973, she united female tennis players to fight for their rights and opportunities, paving the way for future generations of athletes. She also co-founded World TeamTennis (WTT), a mixed-gender professional tennis league that challenged traditional norms and promoted inclusivity in the sport. Her tireless efforts culminated in 1973 when she became the first female athlete to earn $100,000 in prize money in a single year, a testament to her commitment to gender equality in tennis.

Beyond tennis, King has made her mark as an advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights, coming out as gay in 1981 and becoming one of the first prominent athletes to do so. Her courage in living openly at a time when LGBTQIA+ acceptance was far from widespread inspired countless others to embrace their identities. In 2009, President Barack Obama awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom, recognizing her contributions to women’s rights and LGBTQIA+ advocacy.

King’s commitment to social justice extends into her founding of the Billie Jean King Leadership Initiative, which works to address equality and inclusion in the workplace. Whether championing Title IX, which opened the door for women’s sports in schools and colleges, or advocating for pay equity in sports, King’s efforts have had a lasting impact that goes far beyond the tennis court.

With her latest achievement—the Congressional Gold Medal—Billie Jean King reinforces why she's not just a sports icon but a true champion for equality, justice, and the power of perseverance. As we celebrate this monumental milestone, we're reminded that women like King are why the future of sports—and society—is brighter, bolder, and more inclusive than ever.