After 23 Grand Slam wins and 14 doubles titles, Serena Williams is finally ready to leave the tennis court for her next phase of “evolution.” On Tuesday, the 41-year-old tennis icon announced her retirement during a candid interview with Vogue magazine. Now, this won’t be the end of her legendary career but a shift toward “other things that are important” to the star, like her incredible family.
Williams is married to Reddit Co-founder Alexis Ohanian. The happy couple share 4-year-old Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr together.“Believe me, I never wanted to have to choose between tennis and a family. I don’t think it’s fair,” Williams explained to Vogue. “If I were a guy, I wouldn’t be writing this because I’d be out there playing and winning while my wife was doing the physical labor of expanding our family.” Fans will see Williams in action one more time during the U.S. Open. Thankfully, off the court, the four-time Olympic gold medalist will continue to make historic strides in other areas.
From Tennis Star to Venture Capitalist
Wiliams has taken her competitive spirit into the financial world with her venture capital firm Serena Ventures. Over the last nine years, the inclusive firm has financially supported nearly 60 companies in its growing portfolio from fintech giants like Propel and Cointracker to consumer product innovators like Daily Harvest and Master Class. Inclusivity is a core value of the venture capital fund’s mission, with 76 percent of its portfolio representing women and Black burgeoning business owners.
Back in March, the company raised an inaugural fund of $111 million to help empower diverse and underrepresented entrepreneurs.
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Additionally, in 2021, Williams launched her fintech start-up Esusu, which gives renters the tools they need to improve their credit scores.“I started Serena Ventures to invest in diverse founders and early-stage companies that outperform and generate impact, while at the same time empowering others and creating opportunities,” Williams told CNBC during an interview. “Esusu is definitely one of those companies. Esusu is really focused on credit building and creating pathways to financial inclusion not only for working families but for individuals as well.”We can’t wait to see what’s next for Serena Williams, but one thing is for sure, whatever the tennis legend has in store will be nothing short of amazing. We’ve seen Williams pour blood, sweat, and tears into her craft for over 30 years, and she’s also dominated the court with vigor and style! In honor of the GOAT’s retirement, let’s take a look back at seven times the tennis champ dominated the court with her killer backhand and impeccable style.
1. Williams' 2020 U.S. Open Look
Source: Getty
During her Women’s Singles third-round match against Sloane Stephens, Williams shined in a red tennis leotard and matching cuffs that complimented her skin. The star styled the look with a high ponytail that bounced and flowed effortlessly as she battled it out on the court. She even managed to match her hair tie with the cute ensemble.
2. Rothesay International Eastbourne Swag
Source: Getty
Williams dazzled on the court during the Women’s doubles quarter-final at Rothesay International Eastbourne in a colorful Nike dress and matching visor. The star, who has her own athleisure line with the sportswear giant, also won the competition in style!
3. The 2018 US Open
Source: Getty
Williams turned heads at the 2019 U.S. Open wearing a baby one-shouldered tennis leotard and matching shoes. The unique piece featured sheer pleated fabric that twirled and swayed as the athlete swung her iconic back and forehand stroke.
4. The 2021 Australian Open
Source: Getty
Hot pink looks incredible on Williams. The star’s rich melanin radiated when she competed in the 2021 Australian open body, hugging long sleeve shirt and a black halter top. Williams paired the look with tight black shorts showing her strong, toned legs.
5. That Stunning Gucci Dress
Source: Getty
We know! It’s not a tennis look, but the look deserves an honorable mention.
In March, the tennis all-star attending The 2022 Oscars wear a sheer rose color Gucci gown with elegant pleating. The dress featured slits and a plunging v-neckline that accentuated Williams’s brawny physique. Decorated with floral patterns and black sequin, the stunning athlete shined as she walked down the red carpet with her sister Venus.
6. Wimbledon 2004
Source: Getty
In 2004, Serena Williams faced off against Maria Sharapova of Russia during Wimbledon wearing an elegant white tennis dress with intricate cut out along the sides. The pleated dress fit the iconic tennis pro like a glove. Williams paired the look with white tennis shoes and a matching sweatband.
7. The 2002 US Open
Source: Getty
The tennis champ turned venture capitalist celebrated her winning match against Lindsay Davenport in 2002 wearing an all-black Puma bodysuit.
