![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/imago0037133706h.jpg?width=600)
via Imago
Image Credit: Imago
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/imago0037133706h.jpg?width=600)
via Imago
Image Credit: Imago
A veteran always knows better. Former World’s No.1, Billie Jean King is a legend. Her story on and off the courts is an inspiration for many, including the pros as well. She recently tweeted something about women in tennis. Her words hold a lot of value since she has experienced it all. Fifty years after a landmark achievement, she turned emotional as she looked back in nostalgia.
Billie Jean King, took to Twitter to speak her mind about a recently unveiled Forbes list. The 39-time Grand Slam winner held an amazing stat sheet throughout her career. So, when she tweets about the current WTA players, it’s bound to make news.
Words of approval by Billie Jean King
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Billie has always made an effort to publicize the game as much as possible. Her achievements are massive enough that she has a tournament to her name. She has always come forward to support players when needed.
“52 years ago today, I won $4K in a tournament, & became the first woman athlete to earn $100K in prize money in a single year.” King started by clarifying that she started small. With a mere $4k cheque that she won exactly 52 years ago. Although it was a big amount for the time. She also became the first-ever woman in sports to bag $100k in just prize money.“Today, 7 of the top 10 highest paid women athletes are all tennis players (Forbes). We have come so far, but the work must go on.”
Billie then appreciated a very crucial fact. In Forbes’ recent list, of the 10 highest-paid women athletes, 7 of them are tennis players. As per the list, Naomi Osaka stands at the top followed by Serena Williams in the second spot. Emma Raducanu, Iga Swiatek, Venus Williams, and Coco Gauff are placed at spots 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th respectively. Jessica Pegula bagged the 9th spot.
52 years ago today, I won $4K in a tournament, & became the first woman athlete to earn $100K in prize money in a single year.
Today, 7 of the top 10 highest paid women athletes are all tennis players (Forbes).
We have come so far, but the work must go on.
— Billie Jean King (@BillieJeanKing) October 3, 2023
She acknowledged the fact that women athletes today have come a long way. However, she also mentioned that there’s still a lot to achieve. Billie’s journey is nothing less than a best-selling novel.
READ MORE: Naomi Osaka Banks $21 Million More Than Serena Williams and Becomes the Highest-Paid WTA Star
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
King’s activism for women in tennis
The Goliath never went easy on unfair regulations. Billie spent most of her time fighting for women’s rights. She played an important role in the fight to overcome pay disparity. King is a pivotal factor in where WTA and its players stand today.
Jean made sure to abolish sexism from tennis forever. She even received a “Presidential Medal of Freedom” from Obama back in 2009. for her numerous achievements. Undoubtedly, King has come a long way from where she started.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Billie’s tweet will act as a catalyst to motivate even more women to pursue their passion. She is the living proof that any battle can be fought and won. It’s great to see a legend still being active and caring for tennis.
WATCH THIS STORY – Serena Williams’ husband Alexis Ohanian Admits Skepticism Before Giving a Shout-out To Chris Rock’s Latest Netflix Special