Billie Jean King

Billie Jean King is a trailblazing icon whose impact extends far beyond the tennis court. Hailed globally as a champion of equality and inclusion, she is regularly hired as a motivational speaker for her unmatched ability to inspire through lived experience. Known for her fearless advocacy for gender equity and her historic achievements in sport, Billie Jean has long used her voice to empower others to challenge barriers. Whether addressing corporate leaders, young athletes, or global changemakers, her story resonates as a powerful reminder of the difference one person can make when courage meets conviction.

Billie Jean began her competitive tennis career in 1958 and rose to prominence by 1966, becoming the number one ranked woman in the world and claiming her first major singles title at Wimbledon. Her early dominance in tennis included historic wins at all four Grand Slam tournaments, achieving a career Grand Slam in both singles and mixed doubles. However, her influence reached far beyond titles. In 1973, she founded the Women’s Tennis Association and won the iconic “Battle of the Sexes” against Bobby Riggs in front of over 90 million viewers worldwide. That match not only silenced critics but symbolised a seismic shift in the fight for gender equality in sport and beyond.

In recent decades, Billie Jean has continued to lead and influence. She founded the Billie Jean King Leadership Initiative in 2014, focusing on inclusive leadership and workplace diversity. In recognition of her life’s work, she has received numerous honours, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009 and the Congressional Gold Medal in 2024. She has also been a published author, a commissioner in professional sports, and a mentor for UNESCO. In 2020, she made history again when the Fed Cup was renamed the Billie Jean King Cup – the first time a major global sporting event was named after a woman.

Billie Jean is hired as a motivational speaker not only because of her extraordinary accomplishments, but because of her unwavering commitment to justice, resilience, and authenticity. Her story inspires individuals and institutions alike to think boldly, act bravely, and push forward toward a more equitable world.