Billie Jean King Honored with Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Billie Jean King received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on April 7, 2025, becoming the first woman honored in the new sports entertainment category. The ceremony was attended by close friends, fellow athletes, and Oscar-winning actress Jamie Lee Curtis.

During the event, King stated, “The important thing is, I don’t want to be the last one.” Her words resonated as she highlighted the importance of recognition for women in sports.

Joining King at the ceremony were notable figures such as Magic Johnson, Maria Sharapova, and Flavor Flav, creating a star-studded atmosphere to mark the special occasion. Various speakers praised King’s contributions to tennis and her role as a trailblazer for gender equality in sports.

In her speech, Curtis expressed admiration for King’s achievements, saying, “Billie has inspired not just women in sports, but women across all fields to stand up and be counted.” The event drew a significant crowd, reflecting King’s extensive influence beyond the tennis court.

King’s star is located on Hollywood Boulevard, where fans and admirers can visit to pay homage to one of the sport’s greatest champions. This honor is another milestone in King’s illustrious career, which includes six U.S. Open singles titles and a historic match against Bobby Riggs in 1973 dubbed “The Battle of the Sexes.”

Since her retirement, King has remained a vocal advocate for gender equality, working to enhance opportunities for women in sports. The recognition on the Walk of Fame is, in many ways, a culmination of her lifelong dedication to the cause.

King’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of athletes, and this latest honor solidifies her place as a pivotal figure in both sports and equality. As King looks ahead, she remains committed to supporting young athletes and ensuring they have equal opportunities to succeed.