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Tennis Pioneer Larry King Dies at 81
30 May
Summary
- Larry King, co-founder of the WTA Tour, died at 81.
- He was instrumental in the 'Battle of the Sexes' match.
- King also co-founded Roller Hockey International.
Larry W. King, an influential figure in sports and the former husband of tennis legend Billie Jean King, died Friday at his home in Grass Valley, California. He was 81. His death was attributed to prostate cancer.
King played an instrumental role in the advancement of women's professional tennis. He partnered with Billie Jean King in establishing the WTA Tour in the early 1970s, a period that also saw the iconic "Battle of the Sexes" tennis match, which remains the most-watched in history.
Beyond his contributions to tennis, Larry King co-founded World TeamTennis, a professional team tennis league. He also co-founded Roller Hockey International and Bridge Pro Tour after his move to Grass Valley. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Bolger King, and two children.
