Serena Williams, widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes in history, recently shared her inspirations from her formative years on the tennis circuit. During a press conference at the 2017 Australian Open, where she ultimately claimed victory, Williams named four iconic players who influenced her journey in tennis.
Reflecting on her childhood, Williams highlighted two female tennis legends as her primary role models. “I used to love watching Monica Seles and I loved watching Steffi Graf,” she remarked, illustrating the impact these formidable players had on her development. Their powerful playing styles and competitive spirit resonated deeply with her aspirations.
The 44-year-old star then identified another significant figure in her tennis upbringing: “I also loved Pete Sampras; I wanted to serve like Pete Sampras. That was kind of my thing.” Sampras, known for his exceptional serving ability and athleticism, represented the standard of excellence Williams aimed to emulate.
Williams concluded her list with a heartfelt mention of Zina Garrison. “I just liked so many different players. I remember when Zina Garrison got to the finals of Wimbledon; that was so amazing. I loved watching her play whenever I got that opportunity,” she said. Garrison’s achievements, particularly her remarkable run at Wimbledon, left a lasting impression on Williams during her formative years.
Williams’ reverence for these athletes showcases the interconnectedness of different generations within the sport. In an interesting turn of events, Sampras, who inspired Williams, later acknowledged her prowess as a player. In a statement from 2012, he expressed admiration, saying, “Serena is the best player in the world. It’s nice to see her in great shape. She is also the athlete who is the most beautiful and one of the strongest players of all time.”
Sampras continued to praise Williams, emphasizing her powerful serve, which he noted is one of the fastest in women’s tennis history. He acknowledged the significant achievements of both Williams and her sister, Venus Williams, reflecting on their journey from humble beginnings to becoming champions. “What Serena and Venus have been able to accomplish is great if you think where they come from. They are two great champions,” he said.
The mutual respect between Williams and her idols illustrates the legacy of tennis, where admiration and inspiration often transcend generations. As Williams continues to compete at the highest levels, her journey remains a testament to the influence of those who came before her.
