Billie Jean King Receives Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame

HOLLYWOOD, LOS ANGELES — Billie Jean King, the legendary tennis player and activist, was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Monday, becoming the first woman to receive a star in the newly created sports entertainment category.

The unveiling took place at 6284 Hollywood Blvd., near the W Hotel, marking star number 2,807 on the famed walkway. King expressed her excitement during the ceremony, saying, “It makes me feel excited, but it makes me feel more excited about getting more women athletes here on the Walk of Fame.”

King, a 39-time Grand Slam champion, is celebrated not only for her groundbreaking achievements in tennis but also for her unwavering commitment to gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights. She famously won the “Battle of the Sexes” in 1973 against Bobby Riggs, a match that became a cultural milestone for women’s rights.

“I am very happy I’ve lived this long to see the women’s sports movement at its tipping point now,” King said during her speech. “I thank Title IX for helping make it happen, but I also thank the investors who are turning women’s sports into a business.”

The ceremony featured remarks from fellow Dodgers owner and basketball legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson, who praised King as “one of the greatest tennis players that’s ever played.” Johnson emphasized Kings’ role in advocating for social change. “You always fight for what’s right,” he added.

Actress Jamie Lee Curtis, a longtime friend of King’s, also spoke at the event, referring to King’s contributions beyond the tennis court. “Billie Jean King’s contribution is power. She’s power on the courts, she’s power in the courts, power in her public advocacy,” Curtis stated.

King’s journey as an activist began early in her career, where she was one of the original nine women who founded the Virginia Slims Circuit, paving the way for the modern Women’s Tennis Association. Her impact also extends into business as she is a part owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, Angel City FC, and the LA Sparks, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in sports leadership.

“This star is about love and allyship and advocacy,” Curtis said, reflecting the essence of King’s legacy.

In a touching moment, King shared her gratitude towards her late mother, stating, “My mother would have loved this… She is in heaven.” King also thanked her current wife, Ilana Kloss, calling her her “north star.”

King’s contributions to sports and society have garnered recognition, making her the first female athlete to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom and a New York Times bestselling author. The recent ceremony added yet another accolade to her legacy as she continues to inspire future generations.