Los Angeles Dodgers part-owner and tennis icon Billie Jean King served as the Grand Marshal of the 2025 Rose Parade in Pasadena, Calif., on Wednesday.
King made a grand entrance to Elton John’s hit song “Philadelphia Freedom,” which was famously written in her honor.
“We are thrilled to welcome the legendary Billie Jean King to serve as the Grand Marshal of the 2025 Rose Parade,” Tournament of Roses President Ed Morales said in a statement.
“Her trailblazing work has elevated women in sports and inspired countless best days ever for athletes and fans around the globe.”
What an honor to serve as the Grand Marshal of the 136th annual Tournament of Roses Parade this morning.
Ilana and I rode in a gorgeous 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom Ill, and then we walked part of the route too.
Growing up in Long Beach, California, this parade was such a big part… pic.twitter.com/FBNCChVxUJ
— Billie Jean King (@BillieJeanKing) January 1, 2025
As Grand Marshal, King rode down Colorado Boulevard and helped usher in the new year with the 136th annual Rose Parade.
The festivities preceded the Rose Bowl, which saw Ohio State earn a convincing 41-21 win over Oregon to advance to the semifinals of the College Football Playoff.
“Being from Long Beach and growing up in Southern California I have fond memories of watching the parade with my family and I am deeply honored to be named Grand Marshal of the 2025 Rose Parade,” King said.
“This parade is a wonderful celebration of joy and community, and it truly represents the “Best Day Ever” for all who attend or watch.”
Billie Jean King’s career highlights
In addition to her accomplishments on the tennis court, King was named the “100 Most Important Americans of the 20th Century” by LIFE magazine.
She was the first woman athlete to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom and also will become the first individual woman athlete to receive the Congressional Gold Medal.
King joined the Dodgers ownership group at the end of the 2018 season with wife Ilana Kloss.
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