What is Billie Jean King Net Worth 2024?
The former World No. 1 tennis player from the United States, Billie Jean King Net Worth is $20 million. King, who is regarded as one of the greatest tennis players in history, won 39 Grand Slam titles: 12 in singles, 11 in mixed doubles, and 16 in womenâs doubles. At the first WTA Tour Championships, she also won the singles match. Read More Grace Slick Net Worth
Billie Jean King Net Worth Growth
| Billie Jean King Net Worth 2024 | $30.0 Million |
| Billie Jean King Net Worth 2023 | $28.0 Million |
| Billie Jean King Net Worth 2022 | $27.6 Million |
| Billie Jean King Net Worth 2021 | $27.0 Million |
| Billie Jean King Net Worth 2020 | $26.4 Million |
| Billie Jean King Net Worth 2019 | $26.0 Million |
Billie Jean King Early life
Billie Jean King, originally named Billie Jean Moffitt, was born on November 22, 1943, in Long Beach, California, as the first child of Bill and Betty Moffitt. Her father worked as a firefighter, while her mother was a homemaker. From a young age, Billie Jean displayed a natural aptitude for sports, particularly excelling in basketball and softball. Her younger brother, Randy, later went on to pursue a career in Major League Baseball. People Also Liked Jack Wagner Net Worth
At the age of 11, Billie Jean embarked on her tennis journey at the suggestion of her parents, who hoped she would engage in a more âladylikeâ sport. Using her own savings, she purchased her very first tennis racket and commenced taking lessons on the public courts of Long Beach. Quickly smitten by the sport, she exhibited remarkable potential.
In 1958, Billie Jean claimed victory in her age category at the Southern California championship. Her inaugural international recognition came in 1961 when she and Karen Hantze Susman became the youngest duo to clinch the Wimbledon doubles title. From 1961 to 1964, Billie Jean attended California State University, Los Angeles, where she actively participated in tennis tournaments while also working as a tennis instructor.
Despite her early accomplishments, Billie Jean encountered numerous obstacles as a young female tennis player. During that era, womenâs tennis primarily remained amateur, with limited prize money and professional opportunities. Billie Jean, unwavering in her determination, became a vocal proponent for gender equality in pay and treatment within the realm of female sports.
In 1968, Billie Jean transitioned to a professional career, joining the Virginia Slims Tour, a womenâs professional tennis circuit established by Gladys Heldman. She swiftly emerged as the tourâs prominent figure and spearheaded the campaign for equal prize money at major tournaments. In a historic moment in 1973, she triumphed in the Battle of the Sexes, a match against Bobby Riggs that captured the attention of millions worldwide.
Billie Jean Kingâs early life was characterized by her athletic prowess, unyielding resolve, and advocacy for gender equality in sports. She surmounted numerous challenges to ultimately become not only one of the greatest tennis players in history but also a trailblazer for womenâs sports.
Billie Jean King Career
**Early Years: 1959â1963**
Billie Jean King commenced her competitive journey in tennis in 1959, rapidly emerging as one of the worldâs most promising young talents. Her early success included winning her age category in the Southern California championship in 1958. In 1961, a pivotal year, she, along with Karen Hantze Susman, made history as the youngest pair to secure victory in the Wimbledon doubles title. People Also Check Patrick Mahomes Net Worth.
**1964 and 1965**
Continuing her ascent in womenâs tennis, King achieved notable milestones in 1964 and 1965. Her breakthrough came in 1966 when she claimed her first Grand Slam singles title at Wimbledon, marking the start of her remarkable journey. She would go on to add six more Wimbledon singles titles to her illustrious career.
**Prime Competitive Years: 1966â1975**
Billie Jean Kingâs prime competitive period spanned from 1966 to 1975. During this extraordinary decade, she clinched an impressive total of 25 Grand Slam singles titles, encompassing victories at Wimbledon, the US Open, and the Australian Open. She enjoyed a six-year reign as the world No. 1 in singles, solidifying her dominance from 1966 to 1971.
**1966**
The year 1966 marked a turning point as King secured her inaugural Grand Slam singles title at Wimbledon, triumphing over Maria Bueno in the final. She also emerged victorious in the Wimbledon doubles competition, partnering with Nancy Richey.
**1967**
In 1967, King captured her first US Open singles title by defeating Ann Jones in a thrilling final. Adding to her accolades, she once again clinched the Wimbledon doubles title, this time alongside Rosemary Casals.
**1968**
The year 1968 brought another pivotal moment as King transitioned into professional tennis. Her competitive spirit remained undiminished as she clinched the Wimbledon singles title yet again, this time by besting Casals in the final.
**1969**
In 1969, King achieved her maiden Australian Open singles title by defeating Margaret Court in a hard-fought final. Her Wimbledon triumph continued, with another victory in the singles competition against Casals.
**1970**
Kingâs prowess continued into 1970 when she secured her second US Open singles title, prevailing over Margaret Court in a thrilling final. Additionally, she added another Wimbledon doubles title to her impressive record, this time partnering with Betty Stöve.
**1971**
The year 1971 witnessed Kingâs dominance at Wimbledon with yet another singles title, this time defeating Court in the final. Her proficiency extended to the doubles competition, where she once again partnered with Casals to claim the title.
**1972**
In 1972, King clinched her third US Open singles title, triumphing over Court in the final.
**1973**
A historic moment unfolded in 1973 when King faced off against Bobby Riggs in the globally watched âBattle of the Sexesâ match, emerging victorious in straight sets.
**1974**
Kingâs Wimbledon legacy expanded in 1974 as she secured her sixth singles title, defeating Chris Evert in the final. Additionally, she claimed another Wimbledon doubles title, partnering with Casals once more.
**1975**
The year 1975 saw King continue her success, capturing her fourth US Open singles title by defeating Evert in the final. She also clinched the Wimbledon doubles title with partner Ann Kiyomura.
**The Later Years: 1976â1990**
Billie Jean King remained a formidable force in tennis until 1983. Her enduring legacy included winning her last Grand Slam singles title at the 1980 US Open, where she overcame Martina Navratilova in the final. She also secured her final Grand Slam doubles title at the 1983 Australian Open, partnering with Navratilova.
**Activism Within the Tennis Profession**
Beyond her exceptional tennis career, Billie Jean King became a prominent advocate for gender equality within tennis and society at large. Her activism led to the founding of the Womenâs Tennis Association (WTA) in 1973, and she tirelessly campaigned for equal prize money for female athletes. She was instrumental in launching the Virginia Slims Tour, a pioneering womenâs professional tennis tour.
**Other Activities**
In addition to her contributions to tennis and activism, King has engaged in various other endeavors. She founded the Billie Jean King Leadership Initiative, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting leadership and social justice. Furthermore, she authored several books, including âBillie Jean King: Autobiographyâ and âPressure Is a Privilege: Lessons Iâve Learned from Life and Tennis.â
Awards, honors, and tributes
Billie Jean King stands as an iconic figure in the annals of sports, boasting a wealth of accolades and recognitions that bear witness to her extraordinary career and contributions, both on and off the tennis court.
**Among her most notable awards and honors are:**
- The prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009, a testament to her exceptional achievements.
- The esteemed Congressional Gold Medal in 2009, underscoring her significant impact and influence.
- The Arthur Ashe Courage Award in 1975, recognizing her unwavering determination and bravery.
- The lifetime achievement award from the Sunday Times Sportswoman of the Year in 1980, acknowledging her enduring excellence.
- Induction into the National Womenâs Hall of Fame in 1990, cementing her legacy as a trailblazer.
- Membership in the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1987, an honor bestowed upon the sportâs legends.
- Inclusion in the GLAAD Hall of Fame in 2015, reflecting her commitment to equality.
- The BBC Sports Personality of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018, celebrating her enduring impact on the world of sports.
- The naming of the Billie Jean King Cup in her honor in 2020, a remarkable tribute to her contributions to tennis.
- The recent distinction of the French Legion of Honour in 2022, further recognizing her global influence.
**Beyond formal awards, Billie Jean King has received heartfelt tributes from her peers and the public:**
- In 2006, the USTA National Tennis Center in New York City underwent a renaming ceremony, becoming the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, a testament to her enduring legacy.
- The US Open introduced the Billie Jean King Sportsmanship Award in 2014, a reflection of her commitment to fair play and sportsmanship.
- In 2017, the ESPN documentary âBattle of the Sexesâ shed light on the historic match between King and Bobby Riggs, further immortalizing her legacy.
- The HBO miniseries âMrs. Americaâ in 2018 prominently featured Billie Jean King, emphasizing her role as a significant and influential figure.
Billie Jean Kingâs indomitable spirit and achievements make her a true champion and an inspiration to all. Her extensive collection of awards, honors, and tributes serve as a testament to her remarkable career and the enduring impact she has made on the world.
Playing style and personality
Billie Jean Kingâs tennis prowess was defined by a dynamic, aggressive playing style that left an indelible mark on the sport. Her on-court presence was characterized by several key attributes:
**Playing Style:**
- A relentless, aggressive approach that covered all corners of the court.
- A formidable net game that allowed her to dominate close-range exchanges.
- Exceptional athleticism that endowed her with a physical advantage.
- A remarkable ability to decipher and anticipate her opponentsâ strategies and tactics.
Beyond her playing style, Billie Jean Kingâs personality was a reflection of her unwavering competitive spirit and her commitment to advocating for gender equality:
**Personality:**
- A fierce competitor driven by an insatiable desire to win.
- An intensity that radiated from her every move, on and off the court.
- Unyielding determination that fueled her pursuit of excellence.
- A vocal and impassioned advocate for gender equality, both within the realm of sports and in society at large.
Billie Jean Kingâs unique blend of playing style and personality catapulted her to the pinnacle of tennis greatness, making her one of the most dominant and accomplished players in the sportâs history. Furthermore, her role as a trailblazer for womenâs sports and a source of inspiration for generations of athletes solidified her legacy. Her own words encapsulate her ethos:
> âIâve always believed that the more you sweat, the luckier you get.â
This quote not only underscores Kingâs unwavering work ethic but also highlights her belief that hard work, determination, and an unrelenting competitive spirit are the keys to achieving success, on and off the tennis court.
In popular culture
Billie Jean Kingâs status as an iconic and revered athlete has transcended the realm of sports, permeating popular culture through various mediums such as movies, TV shows, literature, and music. Her influence has left an indelible mark on society, and her presence in these cultural forms is a testament to her enduring legacy.
** Billie Jean Kingâs Movies:** Billie Jean King has been portrayed in several cinematic productions, including the critically acclaimed âBattle of the Sexesâ in 2017, where Emma Stone took on the role of King. Additionally, the miniseries âMrs. Americaâ in 2020 delved into the fight for the Equal Rights Amendment, with Sarah Paulson embodying Kingâs character on screen.
** Billie Jean Kingâs TV Shows:** Kingâs compelling story has also graced the small screen. She appeared in ESPNâs â30 for 30â in 2004, featured in an episode that explored the historic âBattle of the Sexesâ match. Moreover, her cameo on âThis Is Usâ in 2017, where she portrayed herself, further underscores her impact on television.
** Billie Jean Kingâs Books:** Billie Jean Kingâs literary contributions include her autobiographical work, âBillie Jean King: Autobiography,â published in 1982. She has also authored âPressure Is a Privilege: Lessons Iâve Learned from Life and Tennis,â released in 2014, sharing her wisdom and experiences with a broader audience.
** Billie Jean Kingâs Music:** Kingâs name and legacy have found their way into the world of music. Iconic songs like Queenâs âWe Are the Championsâ (1977), featuring the line âBillie Jean King, Queen of the game,â pay tribute to her achievements. Similarly, BeyoncĂ©âs empowering anthem âRun the World (Girls)â (2011) not only celebrates female empowerment but also includes a visual reference to Billie Jean King in its music video.
Billie Jean Kingâs omnipresence in popular culture stands as a testament to her profound influence and enduring impact on the world. She remains a symbol of inspiration for athletes, activists, and individuals alike, and her story continues to be embraced, celebrated, and told in various artistic forms.
Billie Jean King Personal life
Billie Jean King, originally born as Billie Jean Moffitt on November 22, 1943, in Long Beach, California, was the eldest child of Bill and Betty Moffitt. Her father served as a firefighter, while her mother embraced the role of a homemaker. In 1965, Billie Jean married Larry King, but their marriage ended in divorce in 1987, and they did not have any children.
During the early 1980s, Billie Jean King confronted and accepted her sexuality, choosing to live openly as a lesbian. Since 1986, she has been in a committed relationship with her partner, Ilana Kloss.
Notably, Billie Jean King is a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has been a vocal opponent of discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Her advocacy extends to championing womenâs rights and striving for gender equality in all aspects of life.
In addition to her illustrious tennis career and advocacy work, Billie Jean King has demonstrated her prowess as a successful businesswoman. She has established various enterprises, including Billie Jean King Enterprises, a sports marketing and consulting firm. Furthermore, her literary contributions include authoring several books, such as âBillie Jean King: Autobiographyâ and âPressure Is a Privilege: Lessons Iâve Learned from Life and Tennis.â
Billie Jean King stands as a genuine champion both on and off the tennis court. Her enduring legacy serves as an inspiration to athletes and activists alike, underscoring the profound impact she continues to have on the world.
Grand Slam statistics
Billie Jean Kingâs remarkable tennis career is punctuated by an impressive tally of 39 Grand Slam titles, solidifying her status as one of the most accomplished players in the history of the sport. These victories spanned across the three main categories of singles, womenâs doubles, and mixed doubles, showcasing her extraordinary versatility and skill.
Here is a comprehensive breakdown of her Grand Slam achievements:
**Singles**
- Australian Open: 1 title, 1 runner-up
- French Open: 1 title, 0 runner-up
- Wimbledon: 6 titles, 3 runner-up
- US Open: 4 titles, 2 runner-up
**Womenâs Doubles**
- Australian Open: 1 title, 0 runner-up
- French Open: 1 title, 0 runner-up
- Wimbledon: 10 titles, 3 runner-up
- US Open: 4 titles, 10 runner-up
**Mixed Doubles**
- Australian Open: 2 titles, 1 runner-up
- French Open: 1 title, 0 runner-up
- Wimbledon: 4 titles, 2 runner-up
- US Open: 4 titles, 4 runner-up
Billie Jean Kingâs journey in the Grand Slam arena began with her first triumph at Wimbledon in 1966 and culminated in her final Grand Slam victory at the US Open in 1983. Her exceptional consistency and dominance propelled her to the world No. 1 ranking in singles for an impressive six consecutive years, from 1966 to 1971.
These Grand Slam statistics not only underscore her extraordinary tennis prowess but also serve as a testament to her enduring legacy, which continues to inspire athletes and captivate fans across the globe. Billie Jean King remains one of the sportâs greatest luminaries, a true icon in the world of tennis.
Billie Jean King Records
Billie Jean Kingâs illustrious tennis career is adorned with a remarkable array of records and achievements, cementing her legacy as one of the sportâs most celebrated figures. These records underscore her exceptional skill and dominance on the tennis court:
- She holds the record for the most Grand Slam singles titles by an American woman, with a remarkable total of 12.
- King also boasts the record for the most Grand Slam womenâs doubles titles by an American woman, an impressive tally of 16.
- Her prowess extends to mixed doubles, where she clinched the most Grand Slam titles by an American player, totaling 11.
- King achieved the extraordinary feat of being the only woman to conquer all four Grand Slam singles titles, all four Grand Slam womenâs doubles titles, and all four Grand Slam mixed doubles titles, thus achieving a career Grand Slam in all three categories.
- In the Open Era, she stands alone as the only woman to secure the Wimbledon singles title six times and the US Open singles title four times.
- Her remarkable consistency is further exemplified by her exclusive distinction as the only woman to hold the world No. 1 ranking in singles for a continuous six-year span from 1966 to 1971.
- Billie Jean King etched her name in history as the sole woman to emerge victorious in the historic Battle of the Sexes match against Bobby Riggs in 1973.
Beyond her on-court achievements, Kingâs enduring legacy extends to her role as a pioneer for womenâs sports and gender equality. She played a pivotal role as a founding member of the Womenâs Tennis Association (WTA) and championed the cause of equal pay and equitable treatment for female athletes. Her advocacy also extends to LGBTQ+ rights, making her a vocal advocate for inclusivity and equality.
In every sense, Billie Jean King exemplifies what it means to be a true champion, both on and off the court. Her life and career continue to serve as a profound source of inspiration for individuals worldwide, transcending the boundaries of sports and leaving an indelible mark on the pursuit of equality and excellence.
Billie Jean King Books
Billie Jean King has made significant contributions to literature through her authorship of several notable books, offering readers a diverse range of insights into her multifaceted life and career:
- **Billie Jean King: Autobiography (1982)**: In her autobiography, King provides an intimate exploration of her personal journey, delving into the intricacies of her tennis career, activism, and her private life. Readers gain a profound understanding of the woman behind the tennis legend.
- **Billie Jean (1988)**: This book serves as a deeper exploration of her life, delving into her experiences and perspectives, both on and off the court. King shares her unique perspective on the world of tennis and her impactful career.
- **We Have Come a Long Way: The Story of Womenâs Tennis (1990)**: Kingâs commitment to advancing womenâs tennis is evident in this work. She chronicles the evolution of womenâs tennis, tracing its journey from humble beginnings to the professional sport it stands as today. It offers a comprehensive historical perspective.
- **Pressure Is a Privilege: Lessons Iâve Learned from Life and Tennis (2014)**: In this inspirational offering, King imparts her wisdom on how to navigate lifeâs challenges, emphasizing the importance of embracing pressure as a privilege. Her insights extend beyond the tennis court, offering valuable life lessons.
- **All In: An Autobiography (2021)**: Her latest autobiography delves into the later chapters of her life, offering fresh perspectives and reflections on her experiences, including her continued advocacy and activism.
Through these books, Billie Jean King provides a rich tapestry of her life, offering readers a profound glimpse into her career, her values, and her philosophy on tennis and competition. Additionally, her work extends to the broader context of womenâs sports and the ongoing fight for gender equality, making her books essential reading for sports enthusiasts and activists alike.
Billie Jean King Legacy
Billie Jean King stands as an enduring symbol of athletic excellence and a trailblazer for gender equality, leaving an indelible mark on the world of sports and beyond. Her remarkable journey continues to inspire athletes and activists across generations.
On the tennis court, Billie Jean Kingâs achievements are nothing short of extraordinary. With 39 Grand Slam titles to her name, encompassing 12 singles, 16 womenâs doubles, and 11 mixed doubles titles, she has etched her name in the annals of sporting history. Her unique distinction as the sole woman to attain a career Grand Slam in all three categories showcases her unparalleled versatility and dominance. Her reign as the world No. 1 in singles for six consecutive years, from 1966 to 1971, is a testament to her enduring excellence.
However, Kingâs legacy transcends her on-court accomplishments. She is renowned for her tireless activism, having played a pivotal role as a founding member of the Womenâs Tennis Association (WTA). Her relentless pursuit of equal pay and equitable treatment for female athletes has had a global impact, improving the lives of women in sports worldwide. Furthermore, her vocal advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights has contributed to a more inclusive and accepting world.
Billie Jean Kingâs enduring legacy is manifest in various ways today:
- As a role model for young female athletes, she exemplifies the possibilities achievable through hard work and self-belief.
- Her activism has paved the way for enhanced opportunities and rights for female athletes on a global scale.
- Her advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights has fostered a more inclusive and compassionate world.
- She serves as an inspiration for individuals to stand up for their beliefs and champion a brighter future for all.
Billie Jean Kingâs journey is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to making a difference. Her legacy, both as a tennis legend and a champion for social change, continues to reverberate and inspire, reminding us all of the potential for greatness within us.
FAQ
1) What is Billie Jean King most famous for?
Billie Jean King, one of the greatest tennis players of all time and recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her support of LGBTQ rights and equality in sports, won 39 Grand Slam championships during her career and spearheaded the campaign for equal pay in tennis.
2) How did Billie Jean King change the world?
King led the fight for equal prize money and equal treatment of women because he was outraged by the gap in awards awarded to men and women at important tournaments. She co-founded World TeamTennis, the Womenâs Tennis Association, and the Womenâs Sports Foundation. She also contributed to the creation of the Virginia Slims Tour.
3) Why did Billie Jean King play Bobby Riggs?
Following Courtâs defeat, King had second thoughts and decided to perform as Riggs on September 20, 1973, in the Houston Astrodome. King declared, âI thought if I didnât win that match it would set us back 50 years.â The womenâs trip would be ruined, and all womenâs self-esteem would be damaged.
4) Was Riggs King match fixed?
Bobby Riggs and Billie Jean Kingâs matchup was rigged, right? The match was fairly conducted, with equal opportunities provided to both Riggs and King.
5) Where does Billie Jean King live now?
Together with her wife, Ilana Kloss, Billie Jean King presently resides in Chicago, Illinois. They have a house in the cityâs Lincoln Park area.
6) Does Billie Jean King have a wife?
Certainly, Billie Jean King is in a committed partnership with Ilana Kloss, and their relationship has spanned since 1986. They celebrated their marriage in 2018.
Both King and Kloss actively engage with the Chicago community, dedicating their efforts to various charitable organizations.
7) Who is Billie Jean Kingâs partner now?
Ilana Kloss, Billie Jean Kingâs wife, is her spouse. They were married in 2018 and had been together since 1986.
8) When did Billie Jean come out?
In 1981, Billie Jean King came out as a lesbian. She stated as much in a New York Times interview, adding, âIâm a lesbian and Iâm proud of it.â