12-time Grand Slam singles title winner Billie Jean King is undoubtedly one of the greatest athletes of all time. Apart from being one of the greatest tennis players, King has been an advocate for women’s equality in sports as well. In 1971, she first met legendary singer Elton John. Since then, they have become true friends. Today, March 25th, on Elton John’s 75th birthday, Billie Jean took to social media and wished him warm birthday wishes. 

Billie Jean King wishes Elton John on his birthday  

Billie Jean King and Elton John have been inseparable as best friends for more than five decades. On his birthday, King wrote a heartfelt message on Twitter for her dearest friend. She wrote, “Happy birthday to our dear friend, the inimitable Elton John! Sending you all our love and best wishes for a terrific year.”

Notably, John and King both met each other at a party in 1971. At first, both of them were very shy and did not talk to each other, even though they were fans of one another. After getting to know each other, they became best friends, and it’s still going strong. 

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Incidentally, John wrote a song for King in 1975, called ‘Philadelphia Freedom’. King loved the word ‘Freedom’ and also it was a tribute to the people of Philadelphia. 

King also supports John’s foundation for people with HIV/AIDS. Also, John supports King’s work for equality and freedom of women in sports. 

Billie Jean’s career as a tennis player

Billie Jean King is one of the most decorated players in the history of Women’s tennis. In her illustrious career, she won 39 Grand Slam titles, including 12 Singles titles. She was also one of the founding members of the WTA (Women’s Tennis Association). 

After turning pro in 1968, she achieved great success as a tennis player. In 1973, she took part in one of the most talked-about matches of all time against Bobby Riggs in the ‘Battle of the Sexes’ match. Almost 90 million people watched that match as Billie beat Riggs. 

Even today, the legendary tennis player is still contributing to tennis, as she continues to fight for women’s rights. 

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Where does Billie Jean rank amongst the greatest tennis players? Let us know in the comments.