Billie Jean King is a celebrated former tennis player, sports administrator and social activist who has amassed an impressive net worth over her successful career. In this blog post, we’ll take a comprehensive look at the amazing life of Billie Jean King and how it led to her extraordinary wealth.
Introduction
In 1973, Billie Jean King made history by becoming the first woman athlete to be awarded a million-dollar contract. She was then ranked No. 1 in women’s singles tennis for five years from 1966 to 1970 and went on to win 12 Grand Slam single titles and 16 grand slam doubles titles during her illustrious playing career. After retiring from professional tennis in 1983, King remained involved with the sport as a coach, teacher and mentor, founding the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) in 1974. Apart from being a top sportsperson, she is also an accomplished businesswoman and philanthropist who continues to use her voice to advocate for gender equality and LGBT rights.
Early Life and Education
King was born in Long Beach, California, to Bill and Betty Moffitt in 1943. As a child, she learned to play tennis with her mother at age 11 and won her first tournament at the age of 13. She graduated from Long Beach Polytechnic High School in 1961 and enrolled at Los Angeles State College on a full scholarship, graduating with honors in 1965 with a degree in physical education.
Career Highlights
By 1962, King had become one of the best players in the US. From 1967 to 1971, she was named Sports Illustrated Sportswoman of the Year four times. The same year she became the first female athlete to earn more than $100,000 in prize money in a single season. In 1973, she famously defeated Bobby Riggs in the famous “Battle of the Sexes” match which propelled her into mainstream media stardom. Her success in that match popularized the game of tennis worldwide. She later founded the WTA Tour and co-founded World TeamTennis (WTT).
Business Ventures
Throughout her long career, King has also pursued many entrepreneurial endeavors. She has served on several corporate boards such as Samsonite Corporation, Quaker Oats Company and Lincoln Mercury Motors among others. She created Bumble Bee Seafoods’ health initiative called “The Wellness Network” which aimed to raise awareness about nutrition and fitness through television shows and internet portals. She currently serves as the Director of Professional Advisory Services for the International Management Group (IMG).
Charity and Activism
Apart from working hard to establish herself professionally, King has also been involved in various charitable activities throughout her career. Since 1972, she has been active in numerous causes, including HIV/AIDS research, domestic violence prevention, racial justice, poverty alleviation and disability rights. Her organization – The Billie Jean King Leadership Initiative – works towards empowering girls and young women all over the world. She is also known for her advocacy for equal pay between male and female athletes.
Net Worth Breakdown
Thanks to her long list of accomplishments across both sports and business, Billie Jean King boasts an estimated net worth of $25 million dollars. This includes the millions she earned throughout her playing career as well as her investments in businesses like Bumble Bee Seafoods.
Conclusion
Billie Jean King is not only one of the greatest tennis players of all time but also an inspiring businesswoman, philanthropist and social activist who has achieved remarkable success both on and off the court. With an estimated net worth of $25 million dollars, there’s no denying that she truly deserves every penny of it!