Billie Jean King, the legendary tennis icon, returned to California State University, Los Angeles (Cal State LA) on October 2nd, 2023, for a momentous occasion. The university unveiled a statue of King, capturing her at the peak of her powers, a testament to her unwavering determination and exceptional achievements.
King’s visit marked a significant milestone in her life, as she announced her intention to complete her bachelor’s degree in history at Cal State LA, where she had attended as a student from 1961 to 1964. The campus holds a special place in her heart, as it was where she first met her husband, Larry King, and where her feminist awakening began.
The statue, created by renowned sculptor Brian Hanlon, showcases King in her signature “Madame Superstar” dress, a symbol of her groundbreaking efforts to elevate women’s tennis. King expressed her gratitude for the honor, stating, “There’s a sense of permanency, which is unbelievable… What really makes me happy is that I’m wearing what used to be called the ‘Madame Superstar’ dress that Ted Tinling made for me… and all the people that have helped me.”
Prior to the statue unveiling, King addressed Cal State LA’s varsity athletes, emphasizing the importance of relationships, continuous learning, and problem-solving. She shared her belief that “relationships are everything” and encouraged the athletes to “keep learning” and “be a problem-solver and an innovator.”
King’s journey at Cal State LA was marked by both personal and professional growth. Despite the lack of college scholarships for women at the time, she held two jobs while pursuing her education. Her passion for tennis and her desire to make a difference in the world fueled her determination.
In 1964, King left college to train in Australia, a decision that propelled her to become the world’s best tennis player. She went on to found the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) and played a pivotal role in the “Battle of the Sexes” match against Bobby Riggs.
Now, 60 years after leaving Cal State LA, King is returning to complete her degree, a testament to her lifelong commitment to education and her belief in the power of knowledge. The campus where her journey began will once again be a place of growth and inspiration for the tennis legend.
