One of the big highlights of the upcoming new year (2014) is the Winter Olympics held in Sochi, Russia, during the month of February. One of the major highlights of the event, apart from the athleticism, is the way the games begin during the event’s opening ceremonies. The opening ceremonies play a big role in how the Olympics (and the country hosting them) are presented, including the singers, dancers, and special guests. One of the special guests that will attend this year’s 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi is tennis legend Billie Jean King.

According to USA Today, King, the well-known 70-year old tennis hall-of-famer, was selected by President Barack Obama for the U.S. delegation. Aside from her professional tennis career, King is also known for being involved with and is an active advocate for sexual equality.

In Russian society, discrimination based on sexual orientation is not only tolerated, but it is not sanctioned as well. Quoting USAToday, “What better way to show the nation’s disgust for President Vladimir Putin’s anti-gay propaganda law than for Obama to send an American cultural icon and sports legend who also happens to be openly gay?”

On Tuesday, December 17th, 2013, King tweeted her excitement for being a part of the upcoming Olympics in Sochi. The USTA (United States Tennis Association) also displayed their appreciation for President Obama’s choice for the delegation of King as well.

Honored to represent USA in Sochi and I hope these Olympics will be a watershed moment for the universal acceptance of all people.

— Billie Jean King (@BillieJeanKing) December 18, 2013

We're thrilled President Obama has named @BillieJeanKing to the official U.S. delegation for the #Sochi Olympics. Well-deserved honor!

— USTA (@usta) December 18, 2013

According to News 4 Jacksonville, King will be joined by Former Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano and Figure Skater Brian Boitano at the Olympics in Sochi.

Image via Wikimedia Commons