Larry W. King, a pivotal figure in the evolution of women’s professional tennis, passed away at the age of 81 due to prostate cancer, as confirmed by his wife, Nancy Bolger King. His death marks the end of an era for a man who not only played a significant role behind the scenes but also stood as a steadfast partner to tennis legend Billie Jean King during a transformative period in sports history.
Larry and Billie Jean first crossed paths at California State University, Los Angeles, where their shared passion for tennis blossomed into a marriage in 1965. Their partnership extended far beyond personal ties; it was instrumental in shaping the trajectory of women’s tennis. Billie Jean King has often referred to Larry as one of the “unsung heroes” of the sport. In her poignant tribute, she acknowledged his profound influence, stating, “Larry’s intelligence, love, commitment and humor helped me navigate my career for more than 20 years.” This sentiment underscores the collaborative spirit that defined their relationship, both on and off the court.
Larry King’s contributions to tennis were not limited to his marriage to Billie Jean. He was a key player in the formation of the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) in 1973, a landmark event that significantly elevated the visibility and legitimacy of women’s sports. His involvement during the signing of the $1 contracts by the Original 9—pioneering female tennis players—illustrates his commitment to advocating for equitable treatment in athletics. These contracts, though modest in financial terms, represented a monumental shift toward professional recognition and respect for female athletes.
In addition to his advocacy work, Larry brought innovation to the sport through the establishment of World TeamTennis, a league designed to enhance the appeal of tennis by introducing a team format. His creative vision led to the design of vibrant courts and a revamped scoring system, elements that contributed to the league’s popularity and helped to engage a broader audience.
Among the milestones associated with Larry King is the historic “Battle of the Sexes” match in 1973, where Billie Jean King famously triumphed over Bobby Riggs in what remains the most-watched tennis match in history. This event not only showcased King’s athletic prowess but also served as a cultural touchstone, challenging societal norms around gender and sports.
After their divorce in 1987, Larry found a new partner in Nancy Bolger King, whom he met on the women’s tour in the late 1980s. Their life together took them to Grass Valley, where Larry continued to innovate in sports by co-founding Roller Hockey International, a professional roller hockey league, and the Bridge Pro Tour, which brought a competitive edge to the classic card game.
Larry King is survived by his second wife, Nancy, as well as his son Sky King and daughter Katie King, alongside their families. His legacy lives on not just in the realm of tennis but also in the hearts of those who knew him and in the structural changes he helped implement within the sports industry. His contributions are a testament to the power of partnership and the importance of advocating for equality in all spheres.
Reviewed by: News Desk
Edited with AI assistance + Human research
