Larry W. King, Women's Tennis Advocate and Billie Jean King's Former Partner, Passes Away at 81

Larry W. King, a pivotal figure in women's professional tennis and former husband of Billie Jean King, has died at the age of 81. He succumbed to prostate cancer, his wife Nancy Bolger King confirmed. Larry and Billie Jean King co-created the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) and greatly influenced the sport's development.

Meeting at Cal State-Los Angeles, the duo married in 1965, collaborating for decades in both their personal and professional lives. Billie Jean King described him as a major, often unacknowledged force in women's tennis during the 1970s. Together, they established World TeamTennis, innovating the sport with new court designs and scoring systems.

Larry King was essential in the establishment of the WTA Tour in 1973 and played a background role in the historic 'Battle of the Sexes' match, where Billie Jean defeated Bobby Riggs. The couple divorced in 1987, but King's contributions to tennis and his innovative spirit live on through ventures like Roller Hockey International and Bridge Pro Tour. He leaves behind his wife, two children, and their families.

(With inputs from agencies.)