Thought For The Day: Wednesday 7th September 2022

“The story of the Williams sisters is a story about winning the game before they ever set foot on the tennis court – overcoming poverty, racism, colourism, class…Serena Williams showed the world that black women excel. That has changed us all.” (Afua Hirsch)

One of the greatest tennis players of all time, if not the greatest, Serena Williams played her last match on Friday night (Saturday morning UK time) at the United States Open Championship. Although you never say never, Serena talks about the importance of motherhood and “evolving” to engage in, and no doubt lead, other areas of society.

Serena Williams belongs in the pantheon of greatest ever sportspeople who transcended their sport and led society.

In defeat last week, Serena, aged forty, showed all her fearless, fighting, resilient, graceful, genius and great qualities as a thirty-nine time major champion in all competitions and four time Olympic gold medallist. A warm smile and a gracious, respectful handshake with her victorious opponent at the net at the end of the game typified her leadership. Giving and respectful always in defeat, as well as victory. Giving and respectful even in her final match.

Serena has been a role model to all, particularly to the black and non-white community. She is a truly iconic person, woman and black woman.

Serena’s story is not just about her. Her older sister, Venus, also won many major titles. Venus initially led the way and in so many ways still does. As Serena said on Saturday: “There is no Serena without Venus”. Behind both of their success was the support of their parents. Serena thanked her parents first and foremost after her final match last week. “It started with my parents and they deserve everything”, said Serena. The Williams’ sisters Dad, Richard Williams, famously borrowed a book from a local library and taught his daughters tennis in Compton, Los Angeles. This story is told in the recent award-winning film “King Richard”.

Serena also thanked anyone who had ever said “Go Serena”. “The Williams’ Story” shows that no dream is too big if we work hard and work together.

What is your dream? How are you working to achieve it?