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Billie Jean King, a name synonymous with tennis greatness, has not only carved out an impressive career on the court but has also built a significant fortune.
With a net worth estimated at $20 million, King stands as one of the wealthiest and most decorated tennis players in history.
Why Billie Jean King is a tennis legend
King's illustrious career began in 1959 when she turned professional.
Over the next 22 years, she dominated the tennis world, winning an astounding 39 Grand Slam titles, including 12 singles, 16 women's doubles, and 11 mixed doubles championships.
She was also the inaugural winner of the WTA Tour Championships in singles, cementing her status as a trailblazer in women's tennis.
King's prowess on the court was undeniable, earning her the title of World No. 1 female tennis player six times between 1966 and 1974.
Beyond her Grand Slam victories, King amassed 129 singles titles, bringing in roughly $2 million in prize money.
However, her financial success extended far beyond tournament winnings.
Sponsorships and endorsements played a crucial role in boosting her net worth, as brands eagerly partnered with the tennis icon at the peak of her career.
King's influence wasn't limited to her achievements in tennis.
She became a vocal advocate for gender equality, famously winning the "Battle of the Sexes" match against Bobby Riggs in 1973.
This victory not only showcased her skill but also highlighted her commitment to advancing women's sports.
King went on to found the Women's Tennis Association and the Women's Sports Foundation, further cementing her legacy as a pioneer for women's rights in athletics.
Billie Jean King, a sports icon on and off the court
In addition to her tennis-related endeavors, King has ventured into business.
In 2018, she and her wife, Ilana Kloss, became minority owners of the Los Angeles Dodgers, a significant investment that ties back to her lifelong love of baseball, particularly the Dodgers, a team she and her brother ed since childhood.
The couple also holds a minority stake in the WNBA'sLos Angeles Sparks, further diversifying King's portfolio.
King's impact on the world extends beyond sports and business.
She has been a staunch advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, and her courage in coming out as gay in the 1980s helped pave the way for greater acceptance and visibility for the community.
Her numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom and her induction into multiple Halls of Fame, reflect her influence both on and off the court.
From her beginnings as a young girl playing on public courts in Long Beach, California, to becoming one of the wealthiest and most influential athletes in history, Billie Jean King's journey is a testament to her talent, determination, and ion for equality.