Billie Jean King, an iconic figure in tennis history, has amassed significant wealth through her illustrious career and various endeavors. Known for her groundbreaking achievements and advocacy for gender equality in sports, King’s impact transcends the tennis court. This article explores Billie Jean King’s earnings, net worth, and financial journey, providing detailed insights, historical context, and nuanced explanations.
Early Life and Introduction to Tennis
Billie Jean King was born Billie Jean Moffitt on November 22, 1943, in Long Beach, California. Growing up in a conservative Methodist household, King showed athletic promise early on, playing basketball and softball before turning to tennis at the age of 11. Her parents encouraged her to pursue a more “ladylike” sport, leading her to buy her first tennis racket with $8 she had saved. King took free lessons from tennis professional Clyde Walker on Long Beach’s public courts. One of these courts was later renamed the Billie Jean Moffitt King Tennis Center in her honor.
Professional Career
Early Success and Breakthrough
Billie Jean King turned professional in 1959 and quickly rose through the ranks. In 1961, at just 17, she and Karen Hantze Susman became the youngest duo to win the women’s doubles title at Wimbledon. King’s first major singles title came in 1966 at Wimbledon, a victory she repeated in 1967 and 1968. She also won the U.S. Open singles championship in 1967 and the Australian Open singles title in 1968. Her dominance in women’s tennis was firmly established, and she was ranked the world’s No. 1 female tennis player in 1966, 1967, 1968, 1971, 1972, and 1974.
Grand Slam Achievements and Major Wins
Wimbledon Titles: King won Wimbledon six times in singles, 10 times in women’s doubles, and four times in mixed doubles.
U.S. Open Titles: She claimed four singles titles, five women’s doubles titles, and four mixed doubles titles.
French Open Titles: King won the French Open in singles once, in women’s doubles twice, and in mixed doubles once.
Australian Open Titles: She won the Australian Open once in singles and once in women’s doubles.
The Battle of the Sexes
In 1973, Billie Jean King famously defeated Bobby Riggs in the “Battle of the Sexes” match, watched by 90 million people worldwide. This victory was more than just a personal triumph; it was a significant moment for gender equality in sports, highlighting the capabilities of female athletes and challenging stereotypes.
Career Earnings and Prize Money
Throughout her career, Billie Jean King earned significant prize money from her tournament victories. While her earnings from the early days of professional tennis were not as substantial as today’s figures, her impact on prize money equality is undeniable. She became the first female athlete to win more than $100,000 in a single season.
Earnings and Endorsements
King’s influence extended beyond prize money. Her advocacy for equal prize money in tennis led to the U.S. Open becoming the first Grand Slam tournament to offer equal prize money to male and female winners in 1973. King’s earnings from endorsements, public speaking engagements, and other ventures have also contributed to her wealth.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Billie Jean King’s net worth is estimated to be around $20 million. This figure includes her earnings from prize money, endorsements, book deals, and other business ventures. King’s financial success is a testament to her enduring influence and savvy investments.
Philanthropy and Contributions
Billie Jean King’s contributions extend beyond her personal wealth. She is a vocal advocate for gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights. King founded the Women’s Sports Foundation and the Women’s Tennis Association, aiming to create more opportunities and better conditions for female athletes. She also co-founded World TeamTennis, a mixed-gender professional tennis league, and has been involved in numerous charitable initiatives.
Awards and Honors
King has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to sports and society, including:
Presidential Medal of Freedom: Awarded by President Barack Obama in 2009.
International Tennis Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1987.
Fed Cup Award of Excellence: Received in 2010.
Arthur Ashe Courage Award: Received in 1999.
BBC Sports Personality of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award: Received in 2018.
Personal Life
Billie Jean King has been open about her personal life, including her struggles with her sexuality. She was married to attorney Larry King from 1965 until their divorce in 1987. King later entered a relationship with her doubles partner, Ilana Kloss, whom she married in 2018. King’s advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and her efforts to promote equality in sports have made her a trailblazer both on and off the court.
Business Ventures and Investments
In September 2018, Billie Jean King and her wife, Ilana Kloss, became minority owners of the Los Angeles Dodgers. They are also minority owners of the Los Angeles Sparks WNBA team. King’s involvement in these franchises reflects her ongoing commitment to supporting sports and athletes at all levels.
Historical Context and Impact
Billie Jean King’s financial success and influence must be understood in the broader context of her contributions to tennis and society. Her victories and advocacy have paved the way for future generations of female athletes, ensuring better opportunities and more equitable treatment in sports.
Conclusion
Billie Jean King’s journey from a young tennis enthusiast in Long Beach to an iconic figure in sports history is a testament to her talent, determination, and commitment to equality. Her consistent performances and Grand Slam victories have earned her millions in prize money, while strategic endorsements and business ventures have bolstered her net worth to an estimated $20 million. King’s financial success, coupled with her philanthropic efforts, highlights a well-rounded individual who has leveraged her athletic talents into lasting wealth and positive societal contributions.
