Venus Williams went on a retrospective journey to reflect upon how she rose the ranks in her career and people’s reaction towards it. Competing in one of the most competitive tournaments in the world, Venus often remembers that extraordinary US Open journey. “What would you say to your seventeen-year-old self?”
At age 17, she became one of the youngest finalists in the competition. However, she was beaten by Martina Hingis in a scintillating 6–0, 6–4 loss. Hingis won the US Open without dropping a set, but the tennis world knew that a storm is in the making.
Venus Williams was never just a player. Her job was never simply to swing a racket and win sets, though that was required. Her job was to change the game, writes @lizweil for @nytmag.https://t.co/zKwvSUdGag
— The New York Times (@nytimes) August 22, 2019
The seven-time Grand Slam champion and former world number one tennis player, has opened up about her early career struggles. “No wonder they hated me.” In a candid reaction, the 41-year-old athlete admitted that her fierce attitude on the court made her unpopular among her fellow tennis stars.
What’s the attitude which won Venus slams after slams?
Looking back at her early days on the tour, Venus recalls being a fierce competitor who was determined to win at all costs. Her intense focus and unwavering commitment to the game often gave her a less-than-friendly reputation. “I guess I always knew I’d be a champ” affirmed Venus in an interview.
“You know I was always really very, very, very good. Serena, on the other hand, wasn’t very good at all. She was small, really slim and the racket was way too big for her. Hopeless. Believe it or not, she used to lob and slice. That was her game.” Says Venus.
17-year-old Venus Williams, speaking for the introverts. pic.twitter.com/rchSle1mcg
— History of Tennis (@HistoryOfTennis) April 12, 2022
But Venus’s single-minded pursuit of victory came at a cost. She admits that she was not always the most pleasant person to be around, especially during matches. In her reaction to the ’97 US Open, she said “Oh you’ve done well. it would be okay if you didn’t win this one. But then I thought, No, actually. It wouldn’t be okay.” which shows her straightforward winning attitude and her strong mentality.
Today, Venus is known not only for her fierce competitiveness but also for her grace and sportsmanship both on and off the court. She has become a role model for young athletes around the world, inspiring them with her talent, determination, and dedication.
