Los Angeles – Billie Jean King, a lifelong champion for gender equality and social justice, added another milestone to her illustrious career on Monday, receiving her college diploma from Cal State Los Angeles at the age of 82.

King's journey to graduation began in 1961 when she enrolled at what was then Los Angeles State College. However, the systemic barriers faced by women in sports and the urgent need for her voice on the global stage led her to leave in 1964 to pursue professional tennis. Even then, King fought for equal treatment and opportunity.

King, who would go on to become a trailblazing athlete and advocate, never forgot the importance of education. Her return to complete her history degree after decades of fighting for equality highlights the ongoing need to address systemic inequities in education and beyond.

Addressing the graduating class, King spoke of her working-class roots and the significance of being a first-generation college graduate. Her words resonated with many in the audience, underscoring the challenges faced by marginalized communities in accessing higher education. "It is a privilege for me to be here as a member of your graduating class,” King said. “Yeah baby, only 61 years!”

King's experiences with discrimination fueled her commitment to creating a more inclusive world. She recalled a pivotal moment at age 12 when she realized the racial homogeneity of tennis clubs, sparking her lifelong dedication to fighting for equality and inclusion. "I asked myself, where is everybody else?” King said. “From that day forward, I committed my life to equality and inclusion for all. Tennis is a global sport and it became my platform, but equality was my dream – to make the world a better place.”

King's advocacy extended to her professional career, where she founded the Women's Tennis Association and successfully campaigned for equal prize money at the US Open. These actions challenged the status quo and paved the way for greater opportunities for women in sports. The historic “Battle of the Sexes” match against Bobby Riggs in 1973 became a cultural touchstone, highlighting the absurdity of gender inequality and inspiring countless individuals to fight for change.

King's achievements, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom and a congressional Medal of Honor, are a testament to her unwavering commitment to social justice. However, her graduation serves as a reminder that the fight for equality is far from over. Systemic barriers continue to prevent marginalized communities from accessing education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.