Hollywood Walk of Fame Honours Tennis Legend Billie Jean King
A New Era for Sports Entertainment on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
American tennis great Billie Jean King has been honoured with her own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, making her the first woman to be given a star in the new sports entertainment category. King, a 39-times Grand Slam singles and doubles champion, is a trailblazer for gender equality in the sport and an advocate for social equality.
A Star-Studded Legacy
King’s star is the 2,807th to be installed on the famous Hollywood strip since the custom began in 1960. Her family, who loved music and movies, would have been thrilled to see her receive this honour. King herself said, “My mother would have loved this.” The 81-year-old tennis legend is also the founder of the Women’s Tennis Association and is known for her iconic ‘Battle of the Sexes’ match against Bobby Riggs.
A Lifetime of Achievements
King’s work to create the WTA and her pioneering efforts to promote gender equality in the sport were portrayed in the 2017 movie ‘Battle of the Sexes’. Her legacy extends beyond the tennis court, as she has been a vocal advocate for social change throughout her career. Last September, King became the first individual female athlete awarded a Congressional Gold Medal – the highest honour presented by the US Congress – for her “courageous and groundbreaking leadership in advancing equal rights for women in athletics, education, and society.”
A Tribute from a Fellow Sports Icon
Unveiling the star during a ceremony, basketball great Magic Johnson paid tribute to King, saying, “You always fight for what’s right. You lend your platform and your voice and your time and your money to bring about change.”
A New Era of Recognition for Sports Entertainers
King’s star marks a new era for sports entertainment on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The addition of a new category recognizes the significant contributions made by athletes and sports personalities to the world of entertainment. King’s achievement is a testament to the enduring power of sports to bring people together and inspire positive change.
Conclusion
Billie Jean King’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame is a well-deserved recognition of her achievements both on and off the tennis court. Her legacy serves as an inspiration to generations of athletes and fans alike, and her commitment to social equality continues to make a lasting impact.
FAQs
Q: Who is Billie Jean King?
A: Billie Jean King is an American tennis great and trailblazer for gender equality in the sport.
Q: What is the Hollywood Walk of Fame?
A: The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a famous sidewalk filled with stars featuring the names of celebrities from the entertainment industry.
Q: What is the new sports entertainment category on the Hollywood Walk of Fame?
A: The new category recognizes the significant contributions made by athletes and sports personalities to the world of entertainment.
Q: What was Billie Jean King awarded in 2022?
A: King was awarded a Congressional Gold Medal for her “courageous and groundbreaking leadership in advancing equal rights for women in athletics, education, and society.”