WATCH: A celebration and look back at women's tennis

When Billie Jean King fell to her knees that day back in 1973, she won the first Wimbledon title under the newly formed WTA. The social justice crusader won a major championship but little did she know all of  her efforts for the sport, for women and for equality would be the real victory.

From that day women in the sport of tennis continued to thrive on and off the court, they pushed for change, battled on the court and were not timid in the face of adversity.

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King wanted to see just three things happen: (1) women that are good enough should have a place to compete, (2) be appreciated for her accomplishments not looks, and (3) be able to make a living. And, today the world can her fight for equality in women's tennis everywhere. Although some work is still to be donee, King's vision is a reality.

In 1976, Chris Evert became the first female athlete to win over a million dollars in total career prize money and it didn't stop there. The WTA continued to flourish and saw many inspiring stars, such as, Steffi Graf and Martina Hingis who became the youngest female to hold a major title in 1997. From there the world saw two sports icons who were also sisters compete for a Grand Slam title.

Most recently, world No. 1 Ashleigh Barty collected a $4.42 million prize money check at last year's WTA Finals. The check would be the largest in the history of both women's and men's tennis.

Through the rollercoaster-like ups and downs, emotional turmoil and lack of respect, the women of tennis have always kept their eyes on the prize and stood for what was right. Today and every day we thank them.