Bille Jean King’s contribution to the sport, especially tennis, is inimitable. The American tennis star is one of the greatest tennis players in the history of the sport. She has won 27 major titles in her illustrious career. However, her impact on sports is what makes her stand out from the crowd. Recently, Sue Barker, the 66-year-old BBC broadcaster thanked King for her contributions.

Sue Barker, a former tennis player, captured the French Open in 1976. She rose to the position of world number three during her playing career. Taking over the post of Wimbledon announcer following her retirement. Throughout her career, Sue Barker has witnessed the development of women’s tennis.

Sue Barker applauds Billie Jean King for her contribution to the sports

The veteran television personality, age 66, was just given the lifetime achievement award. The French Open winner discussed Billie Jean King’s contributions to the sport in her remarks following the honor and how her words encouraged Barker to turn her hobby into a passion.

In the conversation, the famous broadcaster talked about the Wimbledon championships and how she enjoyed being part of the whole journey. She said, “That’s what is all about. You know Wimbledon well and it’s long hours, but it’s so much fun along the way.” 

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The 66-year-old got was struck by emotions and praised King for her dedication to the sport. She said, “All of those wonderful players, the wonderful Billie Jean King. You know I’ve been so much incredibly lucky, I’m gonna get emotional…tennis and I fell in love at 7-year-old, never thought it would be a career until Billie Jean won the battle of the sexes.”

Barker thanks King for helping her turn her hobby into a profession 

While talking about the Tennis prodigy, the one-time Grand Slam champion thanked King for serving as an inspiration. She further said, “And then suddenly my hobby became a career and I was able to travel the world thanks to her and everything she did that gave me a foothold in broadcasting.”

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The 78-year-old former player, according to the Wimbledon commentator, had a noteworthy impact on her career. Notably, over the years, both ex-tennis players have been sighted together at different Wimbledon competitions.