Tuckahoe NY Pride

Billie Jean King is an American tennis champion and equality advocate. She won 39 Grand Slam titles across singles, doubles, and mixed doubles, helped popularize women’s professional tennis, and was a key force behind equal prize money. King founded the Women’s Tennis Association and the Women’s Sports Foundation, pushing broader access to athletics for girls and women. Her 1973 “Battle of the Sexes” victory over Bobby Riggs became a cultural landmark for gender equity. Openly lesbian, King has also advanced LGBTQ+ visibility in sports and public life. She remains an influential voice on leadership, inclusion, and fair play.

Quote: “When women can see other women breaking barriers, challenging norms, and being the first to do something—we all see it, and we can take inspiration from it.

Photo credit Rob Newell