Venus Williams recently took her followers on a sentimental journey by sharing a cherished childhood memory with her sister, Serena Williams. The throwback photo, dating back to 1991, captures the sisters shaking hands after a game in Compton, California, when they were just 11 and 10 years old.
Growing up in Compton, California, Venus and Serena Williams faced numerous challenges, but their unwavering determination and family support propelled them toward greatness.
Their father, Richard Williams, devised a comprehensive 78-page plan to turn his daughters into champions. With their mother Oracene Price's encouragement, Venus and Serena spent countless hours practicing on public courts, developing the skills that would later make them dominant forces in the tennis world.
The heartwarming throwback photo was shared by Venus on December 17, 2024, via her Instagram account. Venus accompanied the photo with a heartfelt caption, reflecting on the special bond she shares with Serena:
"Sister love @serenawilliams 🤍."
Venus turned professional in 1994, and Serena followed suit a year later in 1995. Over the years, they have amassed an incredible array of titles and records. Venus boasts seven Grand Slam singles titles and 14 Grand Slam doubles titles with Serena. Serena has claimed 23 Grand Slam singles titles, surpassing the previous Open Era record held by Steffi Graf. Together, they have dominated the doubles scene, winning three Olympic gold medals.
Serena Williams retired from professional tennis in September 2022, marking the end of an era. While Serena has stepped away from the court, Venus continues to compete on the WTA Tour.
Serena Williams opens up about her "codependent" relationship with sister Venus Williams
Serena Williams spoke about the close bond she shares with her sister, Venus Williams, and reflected on the birth of her second daughter, Adira, in a September 2024 interview with Glamour magazine.
Despite a challenging birth with her first daughter, Olympia, Serena wanted to cherish the experience with Adira, inspired by her strong connection with Venus and the powerful women in her life.
“I mean, I grew up with girls. I’d honestly never been around boys unless I was dating one. And sisters are so special. Some things never change. I don’t even want to not be codependent with her [Venus Williams]. I love her. I don’t want our lives to ever be separate,” Williams said.
Serena Williams also shared that having Venus on tour was a privilege, as tennis can be a "lonely" sport. She revealed that she and Venus Williams lived together until Olympia was born, highlighting their close relationship.
Venus Williams and Father Richard recall one match that 7-time Grand Slam champion "should have won"