Whether celebrated or criticised, Serena Williams made a name for herself and her family throughout her decorated career. She gave the term ‘race pride’ a new meaning for Black athletes all over the world. She made big statements in her matches, from what she wore to how she won.
For Serena, these statements were not only about fighting for equality and fairness within her sport, but also about encouraging women to be fearless and comfortable in their own skin. A case in point was when she left a bad taste in the mouths of the French Open organisers by competing in a catsuit. The outfit was subsequently banned, despite the fact that she had worn it to help with her blood-clotting issues at the time.
Williams was not quite the same player she was when she returned after having her first child. Her game spiralled uncharacteristically, becoming error-filled and letting her down in the biggest matches. Her fans were just as shocked and disappointed as she was, yet she still willed herself to compete with the intensity and grit many have come to associate with her. However, whenever she reached a major final, her fans knew that the Serena they knew would not show up.
Other popular players who returned to the game after having their first child include the Indian veteran Sania Mirza, Victoria Azarenka, the Belgian Kim Clijsters, and Americans Lindsay Davenport and Taylor Townsend.
The Australian had only kinder words for Serena after beating her in a match which was appropriately epic, ending with the score line 7-5 6-7 6-1.
