Billie Jean King

Billie Jean King's legacy is a powerful combination of on-court excellence and off-court activism that transformed tennis and women's sports globally. She won 12 Grand Slam singles titles, including six Wimbledon championships. However, her impact far exceeds her trophy count. King was a fierce advocate for gender equality, famously defeating Bobby Riggs in the 1973 'Battle of the Sexes' and founding the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) and World TeamTennis. She also won a remarkable 27 Grand Slam doubles titles. Her aggressive net-rushing style and competitive fire were hallmarks of her game, but her enduring legacy is as a pioneer who fought for equal prize money and opportunities, shaping the modern landscape of professional tennis.