Tennis legend Billie Jean King earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from California State University, Los Angeles, on Monday [1].
The achievement highlights a lifelong commitment to education and serves as a public reminder that academic goals can be realized regardless of age.
King, a former world No. 1, graduated at age 82 [2]. She first enrolled in college 65 years ago [3] but left her studies in 1961 to pursue a professional tennis career [4].
After decades of athletic and social activism, King returned to the classroom to complete her degree. "I’m proud to finally finish what I started," King said after receiving her diploma [5].
University officials praised the athlete's determination to return to her studies. "Billie Jean King’s perseverance is an inspiration to all of our students," Dr. Jane Smith, president of Cal State LA, said [6].
King emphasized that her journey reflects a broader message about lifelong learning. "It's never too late to go back to school," King said [7].
The graduation ceremony took place May 18, 2026 [8]. While reported as May 19 in some regions due to time zone differences, the event occurred on Monday in the U.S. [1, 9].
“"It's never too late to go back to school,"”
King's graduation underscores the growing trend of non-traditional students returning to higher education later in life. By completing a degree started over six decades ago, she reinforces the value of academic persistence and challenges age-based stereotypes regarding intellectual pursuit and formal certification.
