Serena Williams, widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes in tennis history, recently reflected on her childhood inspirations during a press conference at the 2017 Australian Open. In a surprising revelation, she named four tennis legends who influenced her journey to greatness, showcasing her admiration for both male and female players.
During the press conference, Williams shared that two of her favourite players to watch were the formidable women’s champions, Monica Seles and Steffi Graf. She remembered being captivated by their powerful styles of play, saying, “I used to love watching Monica Seles and I loved watching Steffi.” Their impressive performances left a lasting impression on Williams, who would later carve her own path in the sport.
Adding to her list of inspirations, Williams mentioned the iconic American player Pete Sampras. She expressed her desire to emulate his powerful serving technique, stating, “I also loved Pete, I wanted to serve like Pete Sampras. That was kind of my thing.” This connection highlights the influence of Sampras, who dominated men’s tennis in the 1990s and early 2000s.
Williams concluded her list with a nod to another American tennis star, Zina Garrison. Reflecting on Garrison’s impressive achievements, particularly her run to the finals at Wimbledon, Williams said, “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.” Garrison’s success served as a source of inspiration for the young Williams, further motivating her pursuit of excellence in the sport.
The dynamic relationship between generations of tennis stars is particularly interesting. In a noteworthy exchange, Sampras praised Williams during an interview in 2012, acknowledging her status as one of the sport’s best. He stated, “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 commend Williams’s powerful serve, describing it as “one of the fastest in the history of women’s tennis.” He acknowledged her exceptional skill and control, noting how her serve was even more effective on grass courts. His admiration for both Serena and her sister, Venus Williams, highlighted their remarkable achievements and the challenges they overcame.
“What Serena and Venus have been able to accomplish is great if you think where they come from. They are two great champions,” Sampras remarked. “Serena is stronger than any other. Despite having won a lot, she continues to find the right motivation to triumph, and every tournament counts.” This mutual respect between legends underscores the deep connections within the tennis community.
As Williams continues to inspire future generations of athletes, her reflections on the players she admired during her youth reveal the impact of role models in shaping the careers of aspiring champions. Her journey from a young girl watching matches to becoming a global icon serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and inspiration in the world of sports.
