In 1972, Title IX promised young girls fairer opportunities in sports. But beyond schools, women athletes still faced a bleak reality—low pay, little respect, and limited opportunities. Then came Billie Jean King. With her racket and determination, she reshaped women’s sports. By 1973, she had not only pushed the U.S. Open to adopt equal prize money but also made history defeating Bobby Riggs in the legendary “Battle of the Sexes.” A year later, she founded the Women’s Sports Foundation. More than five decades later, her influence is still felt worldwide.
Today, King remains deeply involved in sports, investing in teams like Angel City FC, the Los Angeles Sparks, and the Dodgers. Her name also lives on through the Billie Jean King Cup, the premier women’s team tennis competition. Honors have followed her throughout her career—from the Congressional Gold Medal in 2024 to her most recent milestone: a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in the brand-new “Sports Entertainment” category. At 81, King became the first woman to earn this distinction, joining the likes of Michael Strahan and the late Carl Weathers.
At the unveiling near the Pantages Theatre, stars such as Jamie Lee Curtis and Magic Johnson joined the celebration. Among them was former tennis champion Maria Sharapova, who proudly shared moments from the event. On Instagram, she praised King, writing: “There is no one more deserving of this honor. Thank you for being you!”
Sharapova’s admiration for King goes back to her teenage years. In a March 2025 interview, she recalled meeting King at 14, when the legend reminded her that her behavior on and off the court could inspire generations to come. That moment shaped how Sharapova viewed her role as a player and role model.
Their bond has only grown stronger over the years. In 2008, ahead of her Australian Open final, Sharapova received a text from King reminding her: “We need to treat the pressures we face as a privilege.” She went on to win the title without losing a set. Sharapova has also shared how King often texted her after matches—whether wins or losses—always offering encouragement.
For Sharapova, King has been more than a tennis legend; she’s been a mentor and a steady supporter. And as King continues to break barriers, her legacy serves as a reminder of just how much one determined woman can change the game forever.
