Charleston Leader

U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), and Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.) announced that the Senate unanimously passed their bipartisan legislation to award the Congressional Gold Medal to tennis legend and American icon Billie Jean King. The medal will be awarded in recognition of King’s groundbreaking leadership throughout her life and career in advancing equal rights for women in athletics, education, and society at large.

King was instrumental in securing equal prize money in men’s and women’s tennis at the U.S. Open, spearheaded the formation of the Women’s Tennis Association, and brought worldwide attention to pay equality throughout her career and in her “Battle of the Sexes” match against Bobby Riggs.

Senator Capito expressed admiration for King's contributions saying, “It would be hard to think of someone who has done more to advance women and girls in sports than Billie Jean King.” She further highlighted King's inspirational role not only for her talent on the tennis court but also for her determination in fighting for women to receive equal pay.

Echoing these sentiments, Senator Gillibrand described King as a "living legend" whose success on the tennis court is matched by her pioneering work for gender equality off it. She pledged to work alongside bipartisan House partners to get the bill signed into law.

Similarly, Senator Sinema praised King as a fierce athlete and advocate who shattered barriers and opened doors for countless women and girls. She expressed pride over the Senate's unanimous decision to pass their bill awarding King with the Congressional Gold Medal.

Dr. Brian Hainline, USTA Chairman of the Board and President, expressed excitement over this significant milestone in efforts to recognize King with this distinction. He thanked Senators Gillibrand, Capito, and Sinema for their leadership in support of the bill which recognizes Billie's lifelong work to advance equal rights for women across all spheres of life.

The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions to society. Previous athletes who have received the Congressional Gold Medal include Jackie Robinson, Jesse Owens, Roberto Clemente, Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Byron Nelson, Willie O’Ree, Greg LeMond, Larry Doby, Joe Louis, and the 1980 Summer Olympic team. However, an individual woman athlete has never received this honor before.

The legislation is endorsed by the United States Tennis Association and its House companion bill is led by U.S. Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.) and Mikie Sherrill (D-N.J.).