Billie Jean King Becomes First Female Athlete to Receive Congressional Gold Medal

Billie Jean King has made history as the first individual female athlete to be awarded the Congressional Gold Medal. The legislation recognizing her remarkable contributions to equal rights in sports and society passed unanimously in both the Senate and the House of Representatives.

President Joe Biden signed the bipartisan bill on Thursday, honoring King for her lifetime dedication to advocacy. The bill was introduced last September, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of King’s iconic victory over Bobby Riggs in the “Battle of the Sexes,” the most-watched tennis match in history.

Previously, the Congressional Gold Medal has been awarded to legendary athletes like Jackie Robinson, Roberto Clemente, and Jack Nicklaus. King, who received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009, has been recognized for breaking barriers and inspiring countless individuals in their fight for equality. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, a co-sponsor of the bill, emphasized her impactful legacy of courage and conviction.