Billie Jean King, the 82-year-old tennis legend, graduated with a bachelor's degree in history from Cal State Los Angeles on May 18, 2026. She first enrolled in 1961 but left to pursue her tennis career.
What happened?
Billie Jean King earned her degree more than six decades after she first walked onto the campus. She received her bachelor’s degree in history from Cal State Los Angeles.
Why it matters for Billie Jean King
The former World No. 1 won 39 Grand Slam titles and founded the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) in 1973. She also defeated Bobby Riggs in the historic "Battle of the Sexes" match.
What comes next?
Billie Jean King's latest achievement is a testament to her dedication and perseverance. She had to write a paper about the LGBTQ+ and Title IX movements she helped architect.
The WTA celebrated the trailblazer's latest achievement, saying "Billie Jean King has spent her entire adult life making history." She became one of the most celebrated sporting icons while fighting for gender and pay equality.
Billie Jean King is an openly gay athlete who has made significant contributions to the sport. Her graduation marks a new chapter in her life, and she continues to inspire fans around the world.
On May 18, 2026, Billie Jean King achieved a new milestone in her life, graduating with a bachelor's degree in history. This achievement is a reminder of her hard work and dedication to her craft.
The tennis legend has won numerous awards, including a Presidential Medal of Freedom and a Congressional Medal of Honor. Her legacy continues to inspire new generations of tennis players and fans alike.
Billie Jean King's graduation is a significant event in her life, and it marks a new beginning for the tennis legend. She will always be remembered as a pioneer in the sport and a champion of equality and justice.