# Owen Davidson, Who Won 8 Grand Slams With Billie Jean King, Dies at 79

The tennis world has lost one of its legends as Owen Davidson, who won 8 Grand Slam titles in partnership with Billie Jean King, has passed away at the age of 79. His death was confirmed by his daughter, Lauren Davidson, who said that he had been struggling with health issues for some time.

Davidson was born on October 4, 1943, in Australia and began his professional career in 1960. He went on to win more than 45 titles in singles and doubles competitions and was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2010.

Davidson made history in 1967 when he became the first player in the Open Era to win all four Grand Slam titles in mixed doubles in a calendar year. He partnered with Billie Jean King, and the two went on to become one of the most successful mixed doubles teams in tennis history. Together, they won a total of eight Grand Slam titles, including four Wimbledon titles.

Davidson was known for his versatility and played well in both singles and doubles competitions. He also won three Grand Slam titles in men’s doubles and one in mixed doubles without King.

After retiring from professional tennis in 1980, Davidson became a successful tennis coach and worked with many top players, including Martina Navratilova and Gabriela Sabatini.

Davidson’s contributions to tennis will be remembered for years to come, and his legacy will live on in the sport. He was a true champion and will be deeply missed by his fans, family, and friends.