Venus Williams, a celebrated figure in tennis with seven Grand Slam singles titles, revealed that her childhood idol was not another female player, but the renowned men’s champion, Boris Becker. Williams, who has continued to compete on the WTA Tour at the age of 45, shared insights about her early admiration for Becker, a six-time Grand Slam champion known for his powerful serve and success at Wimbledon.
In a recent interview, Williams discussed how she emulated Becker’s distinctive serving style during her junior career. “I even had this habit of serving like him when I was in the juniors, moving my hips back and forth,” Williams remarked, adding, “it was kind of annoying.” This acknowledgment highlights how even the greatest athletes draw inspiration from their predecessors, regardless of gender.
Legacy and Influence in Tennis
Throughout her illustrious career, Williams has made a significant impact on women’s tennis, securing a total of 16 major titles in doubles alongside her singles victories. Her prowess on grass courts is particularly noteworthy, with five Wimbledon singles titles to her name. As she prepares for the 2026 season, Williams remains a role model for aspiring tennis players around the world, continuing to inspire the next generation while also reflecting on her own journey.
Interestingly, Williams’ achievements often bring her into comparison with her younger sister, Serena Williams, who holds the record for the most Grand Slam singles titles in the Open Era with 23. Despite this, both sisters have carved out their unique legacies in the sport.
Becker himself has acknowledged Serena’s exceptional talent, stating, “Me, being German, I still think of Steffi Graf as our queen, but Serena is certainly, certainly the greatest.” His comments, made during an interview with Laureus Sport in 2020, emphasize the respect he holds for both Williams sisters, particularly Serena’s historic impact on women’s tennis.
As Venus Williams continues to compete, her reflections on Becker’s influence serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness in sports, where inspiration can transcend boundaries. Her journey illustrates the evolving landscape of tennis, where both men and women can look up to each other as they strive for greatness.
