Billie Jean King, at 81, continues to be a formidable force in women's sports, making significant strides in 2024 and beyond. From attending the inaugural Professional Women’s Hockey League game to being a Grand Marshal at the Rose Parade, King's influence spans across sports and societal issues. Her efforts in advocating for women's sports and LGBTQ+ rights remain unparalleled, as she gears up for another impactful year.
Billie Jean King, a name synonymous with the advancement of women's sports, continues to make waves even at the age of 81. Her relentless pursuit of equality and passion for sports have seen her involved in numerous high-profile events and initiatives in 2024. From the world of tennis to the broader spectrum of women's athletics, King's influence remains as powerful as ever. As she steps into 2025, her commitment to fostering growth and equality in sports shows no signs of waning.
In 2024, Billie Jean King was omnipresent in the sports world, attending major events and celebrating significant milestones. She kicked off the year by attending the inaugural Professional Women’s Hockey League game in Toronto, a project she had been passionately involved in for years. King's presence was also felt at three of the four Grand Slams, where she served as a BBC commentator at Wimbledon. Her influence extended beyond tennis as she attended the Paris Olympics and celebrated the Los Angeles Dodgers' season as a part-owner. Other highlights included attending the U.S. President's State of the Union Address, celebrating the Women’s Sports Foundation’s 50th anniversary, and receiving the Congressional Gold Medal, marking her as the first individual woman athlete to earn this honor [1].
Billie Jean King's contributions to women's sports have been nothing short of revolutionary. Her efforts in forming the Women’s Tennis Association and advocating for equal prize money have set a precedent in the sports world. In 2024, she replicated this success with the Professional Women’s Hockey League, emphasizing the need for a proper professional league for women. King's dedication to team sports is evident, as she continues to push for the expansion of the PWHL, with plans to add more franchises in the upcoming seasons. Her work has been pivotal in providing opportunities for women athletes, a testament to her lifelong commitment to equality in sports [1].
On January 1, 2025, Billie Jean King was honored as the Grand Marshal of the 136th Tournament of Roses Parade. Riding in a classic 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III, King was celebrated for her extensive contributions to sports and society. Her career, marked by 39 Grand Slam titles and a pivotal role in advocating for gender equality in sports, made her an ideal choice for the parade's theme, 'Best Day Ever!' King's influence extends beyond tennis, as she has been a staunch advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and a pioneer for women's sports. Her upcoming recognition with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame further cements her legacy as a trailblazer in sports and beyond [2].
Billie Jean King's impact on the world of sports and society is profound and enduring. As she continues to champion for women's rights and equality in sports, her legacy only grows stronger. Her involvement in various sports and advocacy for women's athletics highlights her relentless dedication to making a difference. As she gears up for another year of advocacy and influence, King's contributions serve as an inspiration to many, proving that age is no barrier to making a significant impact.
"She put women’s tennis on the map." - Martina Navratilova
"Growth is critical for the future of women’s sports." - Billie Jean King
"I will always remember it." - Billie Jean King