Billie Jean King Receives Hollywood Walk of Fame Star for Lifelong Contributions to Tennis and Social Justice
Billie Jean King, the legendary tennis player and trailblazer for gender equality, was recently honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a fitting tribute to her decades of hard work both on and off the court. At 81 years old, King’s recognition places her among the greats, but it’s not just her athletic accomplishments that have earned her this honor—it’s her groundbreaking activism and role in changing the sports landscape for women and the LGBTQ+ community.
King’s most iconic achievement in tennis was defeating Bobby Riggs in the historic 1973 "Battle of the Sexes," a match that transcended sport to become a symbol for women’s equality, advocating for equal pay and opportunities in all areas of life. Her victory not only solidified her place in tennis history but also set the stage for future generations of female athletes, including today’s top earners in the world of sports. During the star ceremony, former NBA player Magic Johnson shared his admiration for King, highlighting how her courageous fight for women’s equal pay helped pave the way for today’s female athletes who earn millions. “When we talk about that ‘Battle of the Sexes,’ it wasn’t just about you beating Bobby Riggs. You were fighting for equal pay,” Johnson remarked.
Also Read:- Tragic Passing of AFL Pioneer Sean King at 60: A Heartfelt Goodbye to a West Coast Eagles Star
- NHL 25 New Content: Team of the Week, HUT Champs, and Exciting Card Additions
This recognition also comes with historical significance. King is the first female athlete to receive a star in the new sports entertainment category, a part of the Hollywood Walk of Fame traditionally reserved for stars from the worlds of film, music, and television. Her inclusion in this prestigious group shows just how far-reaching her influence has been beyond the tennis courts. King’s star is the 2,807th to be installed, and during the ceremony, she expressed her gratitude, saying, “The important thing is, I don't want to be the last one.”
King’s commitment to activism hasn’t stopped with gender equality. In 1981, she came out as a lesbian, becoming one of the most prominent LGBTQ+ athletes in the world. Since then, she’s continued advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, and her legacy as a change-maker goes hand in hand with her athletic achievements. As the founder of the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) and the Women’s Sports Foundation, King has worked tirelessly to create a better, more inclusive world for women in sports.
Her lifelong impact was also celebrated by actress Jamie Lee Curtis, who was present at the ceremony and praised King for her monumental contributions. Curtis emphasized how King’s influence extended far beyond the court, saying, “There is not a woman in any professional sport or any LGBTQ+ human being whose life has not been shaped and helped by this extraordinary woman’s great talents.”
King’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame is a well-deserved recognition of her incredible achievements, not just as a tennis champion, but as a force for social change. From her groundbreaking victory in the “Battle of the Sexes” to her advocacy for equality and LGBTQ+ rights, Billie Jean King has proven time and again that she is a true pioneer, changing the game for generations to come.
Read More:
0 Comments