Tennis legend Billie Jean King has been announced as the grand marshal for the upcoming 136th Rose Parade in Pasadena. At 81 years old, King was introduced with a shower of confetti and the hit song “Philadelphia Freedom” by Elton John. She expressed her excitement for the event, sharing memories of watching parades with her mother in Long Beach during her childhood. The parade’s theme of “Best Day Ever!” resonates with King, reminding her to live in the present and cherish each day.
King joins a prestigious list of athletes who have served as grand marshals for the Rose Parade, such as Olympic champions Laurie Hernandez, Greg Louganis, and Allyson Felix, as well as golfers Chi-Chi Rodriguez and Arnold Palmer. However, King stands out as the first female athlete to serve in this role. Throughout her career, King has been a staunch advocate for gender equity, LGBTQIA+ rights, and other social justice issues. Her impressive tennis record includes 39 major championships, with 20 Wimbledon titles in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles.
Recently honored with a bronze statue at Cal State Los Angeles, King attended the university in the early 1960s but did not graduate. She shared her plans to re-enroll and complete her degree, emphasizing the importance of education and lifelong learning. In addition to her accomplishments in tennis, King also has ownership interests in the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Angel City FC women’s professional soccer team. She was also the first individual female athlete to be awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for her dedication to championing equal rights in sports and society.
As the grand marshal of the Rose Parade, King will ride the 5 1/2-mile route through Pasadena and participate in the coin flip for the 111th Rose Bowl football game on New Year’s Day. The parade’s theme of celebrating life’s best moments resonates with King, who continues to inspire others with her passion for social justice and equality. She expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve in this role, acknowledging the historic significance of being the first female athlete to do so. King’s legacy both on and off the tennis court continues to inspire generations of athletes and advocates for change.
King’s selection as grand marshal highlights her enduring impact on the world of sports and society as a whole. Her commitment to gender equity, LGBTQIA+ rights, and other important issues has made her a trailblazer in the world of athletics. As she prepares to lead the Rose Parade in Pasadena, King’s presence serves as a powerful reminder of the progress that has been made in achieving equality and justice for all. Her accolades and accomplishments serve as a testament to her dedication and passion for making a difference in the world.
