Billie Jean King

Billie Jean King

Billie Jean Moffit, born in California, was an exceptional softball player in her early years, yet her parents introduced her to tennis, the game that would change her life and the lives of other women players. In 1967 she was selected as "Outstanding Female Athlete of the World". In 1972 she was named Sports Illustrated "Sportsperson of the Year", the first woman to be so honored; and in 1973, she was dubbed "Female Athlete of the Year". She was the first female athlete to win over $100,000 prize money in a single season. Billie Jean King spoke out for women and their right to earn comparable money in tennis and other sports. Her constant lobbying and commitments have broken many barriers. For her contributions to tennis as President of Tennis-America, Billie Jean King was awarded the National Service Bowl.