Former tennis star, and openly gay athlete, Billie Jean King will be in the U.S. delegation to the Winter Olympics in Sochi.
She was awarded a Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009.
Some human rights activists are calling on a boycott to Russia's Olympics, where critics say a recent anti-gay propaganda law discriminates against homosexuals.
White House Press Secretary Jay Carney spoke of President Obama's decision:
(SOUNDBITE) (English) JAY CARNEY, SAYING:
"Now, this delegation represents the diversity that is the United States. All our delegation members are distinguished by their accomplishments in government service, in civic activism, and in sports."
There has been international criticism of Russia's human rights record, though President Vladimir Putin has said several times that gay athletes are welcome in Sochi.
Carney says the Obama administration is taking a clear stance on the issue of discrimination:
(SOUNDBITE) (English) JAY C
