In a historic moment for both sports and entertainment, tennis icon Billie Jean King was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on April 7, 2025. The ceremony, held at 6284 Hollywood Boulevard, celebrated King’s trailblazing achievements both on and off the court — and marked a major milestone, as she became the first woman to receive a star in the sports entertainment category.
The honor makes King the 2,807th inductee to receive a star, cementing her influence not only as a tennis champion but as a cultural figure whose legacy has transcended generations.
A Star for a True Game-Changer
Billie Jean King is far more than a Grand Slam winner. Known for her fierce advocacy for gender equality in sports, she famously founded the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) in 1973 and has spent decades fighting for equal pay, LGBTQ+ rights, and representation in sports media. Her accomplishments include 39 Grand Slam titles, a Presidential Medal of Freedom, and now — a spot among Hollywood legends.
“This isn’t just about me,” King said at the event. “It’s about celebrating women in sports and reminding the world that our stories matter too.”
The star unveiling was attended by fellow athletes, celebrities, and supporters, with many noting how overdue such recognition was for women in athletics.
From Courts to Culture: Her Broader Impact
King’s journey from a young girl in Long Beach, California, to a globally recognized advocate and athlete is nothing short of extraordinary. A proud Cal State LA alumna, she continues to inspire new generations through her foundation and public speaking, emphasizing inclusion, resilience, and the importance of pushing boundaries.
Her star not only acknowledges her tennis legacy but also her cultural significance in the broader movement for social justice and visibility in sports. Fans took to X (formerly Twitter) in droves to share clips of the event, emotional tributes, and calls for more women in sports to receive similar recognition.
“Billie Jean King paved the way for so many,” one user tweeted. “Seeing her name on the Walk of Fame is a win for every girl who’s ever picked up a tennis racket.”
Why This Moment Matters
While many athletes have received Hollywood stars, the sports entertainment category has traditionally been dominated by men. Billie Jean King’s induction opens the door for more female athletes, commentators, and pioneers to be celebrated in a space typically reserved for actors, directors, and musicians.
Her star now stands not just as a personal achievement, but as a symbol of progress — reminding future generations that excellence in sport deserves the same spotlight as excellence in film or music.
Hollywood Meets the Court
The event also served as a reminder of how deeply sports and entertainment have become intertwined. As media coverage of female athletes increases, and streaming platforms highlight stories like King’s in documentaries and biopics, it’s clear that sports icons are also cultural storytellers.
With her life already the subject of the acclaimed film Battle of the Sexes, King continues to impact how sports figures are portrayed and remembered in entertainment.
🎾🌟 Billie Jean King, Cal State LA alumna, honored with a Hollywood Walk of Fame star—the first woman in sports entertainment! Congrats, @BillieJeanKing! #HollywoodStar #Tennis
— Cal State LA News (@CalStateLANews) April 12, 2025
