Billie Jean King To Attend Sochi Closing

Billie Jean King was unable to be part of the US delegation to opening ceremonies at Sochi due to to the death of her mother. But yesterday President Obama named her as part of the closing ceremonies delegation.

"I will use this trip to honor the memory of my mother and to further my mission of equality," King said in a statement to The Associated Press. "I am thankful to President Obama for including me and I look forward to supporting the men and women of Team USA in Sochi." Russia has been widely criticized for passing a national law last year that banned gay "propaganda" to minors. King and two other openly gay athletes — Brian Boitano and Caitlin Cahow — were selected for the delegation at the opening ceremony. Obama said it showed the U.S. doesn't make distinctions based on sexual orientation.

Also on the closing delegation are gold medalists Bonnie Blair and Eric Heiden.