Billie Jean King Taping ESPN's

Tennis legend Billie Jean King will return to her hometown of Long Beach, Calif., where she won her first tournament at age 12 for an episode of the ESPN show Homecoming With Rick Reilly.

The show brings athletes back to the towns where their careers began.

"Years ago, many people from the area opened their hearts for me and my family and gave generously so that I and others could pursue our dreams -- my teachers and coaches, the Long Beach Tennis Patrons, the Century Club," she said in a press release. "The people of Long Beach made a difference in my life and helped me realize that it is important to lead by example and to never give up on your dreams."

King, 66, was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009. Throughout her career, she has won 39 Grand Slam titles in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles, including 20 Wimbledon titles. Also, in an iconic moment for women in sports, King faced Bobby Riggs in the historic 1973 match, the Battle of the Sexes.