"Serena Williams is considered one of the greatest tennis players ever, holding the world No. 1 ranking for 319 weeks and winning 23 Grand Slam singles titles, the most in the Open Era. She held the No. 1 ranking for a record 186 consecutive weeks and finished the year ranked No. 1 five times. She is the only player with a Career Golden Slam in both singles and doubles competition."
September 26, 1981: Serena Williams is Born
On September 26, 1981, Serena Jameka Williams, the future tennis icon, was born in Saginaw, Michigan.
1983
In 1983, a significant event in sports history took place where the last solo woman before Serena Williams received the Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year award. This highlights a historical gap in recognizing individual female athletes for this prestigious accolade.
1984: Surface Slam
Martina Navratilova won the "Surface Slam" in 1984.
1991: Top-Ranked Junior Player
By 1991, at the age of ten, Serena Williams displayed exceptional talent, boasting a 46-3 record on the United States Tennis Association junior tour and earning the No. 1 ranking among under-10 players in Florida.
1993: Surface Slam
Steffi Graf won the "Surface Slam" in 1993, 1995, and 1996.
1994
Serena Williams began working with coaches Richard Williams and Oracene Price in 1994.
October 1995: First Professional Event
Serena Williams made her professional debut in October 1995 at the Bell Challenge in Quebec, Canada, entering the tournament with a wild-card entry to bypass age-eligibility rules, marking the beginning of her journey as a professional tennis player.
1995: Leaving the Academy
In a pivotal decision, Richard Williams, Serena's father, decided to withdraw his daughters from Rick Macci's tennis academy in 1995, opting to personally oversee their training at home.
1995: Turning Pro
Serena Williams embarked on her professional tennis journey in 1995, stepping onto the court with aspirations of greatness.
1995: Surface Slam
Steffi Graf won the "Surface Slam" in 1993, 1995, and 1996.
1996: Surface Slam
Steffi Graf won the "Surface Slam" in 1993, 1995, and 1996.
1996
Steffi Graf achieved the feat of holding the No. 1 ranking for the entire calendar year in 1996, a feat that Serena Williams would later replicate in 2014.
1996: Taking a Break
Serena Williams took a break from competitive tennis in 1996, a period of rest and preparation before her breakthrough performance the following year.
November 1997: Breakthrough at the Ameritech Cup
Serena Williams announced her arrival on the professional tennis scene in November 1997 with a stunning performance at the Ameritech Cup Chicago, upsetting top-ranked players and reaching the semifinals, marking her emergence as a rising star.
1997: Lowest Ranking Since 1997
Serena Williams' ranking dropped to 139, her lowest since 1997, causing her to need a wildcard to enter the US Open.
1998: First Time Failing to Qualify for the Year-End Championship
For the first time since 1998, Serena Williams failed to qualify for the year-end championship and finished 2005 ranked No. 11.
1998: First Grand Slam Appearance and Mixed Doubles Success
Serena Williams made her debut in a Grand Slam main draw at the 1998 Australian Open, facing her sister Venus for the first time in a professional match. This year also marked her first foray into Grand Slam mixed doubles, reaching the French Open final and winning titles at Wimbledon and the US Open with Max Mirnyi.
1998: Mixed Doubles Success
Serena Williams showcased her versatility on the tennis court in 1998 by claiming two major mixed doubles titles, adding another layer of accomplishment to her already impressive career.
1998: The Williams Sisters' Rivalry Begins
Serena and Venus Williams began their professional rivalry on the court in 1998, marking the start of numerous matches between the two tennis stars.
1998: Serena Williams and Martina Hingis' Rivalry Kicks Off
The rivalry between Serena Williams and Martina Hingis commenced in 1998 at the Miami Open, where Hingis emerged victorious in a three-set match.
February 1999: Open Gaz de France
Serena Williams won her first professional singles title in February 1999 at the Open Gaz de France in Paris after defeating Amélie Mauresmo in the final.
1999
Serena Williams won her first Grand Slam title using a Wilson Hammer Stretch racket in 1999.
1999: Serena Williams and Jennifer Capriati's Rivalry Ignites
The rivalry between Serena Williams and Jennifer Capriati began in 1999, characterized as one of the most captivating in women's tennis, initially favoring Capriati.
1999
Serena Williams graduated from Driftwood Academy and signed a $12 million endorsement deal with Puma in 1999.
1999: US Open
In 1999, Serena Williams won her first Grand Slam title at the US Open, defeating Hingis in the final. This win made her the second African-American woman to win a Grand Slam singles tournament.
1999: Hingis Maintains Upper Hand on Clay
Serena Williams and Martina Hingis's rivalry continued in 1999, with Hingis securing a straight-sets victory on clay in Rome.
1999: First Grand Slam Title
Serena Williams achieved a significant milestone in 1999 by securing her first major singles title at the US Open, announcing her arrival as a force to be reckoned with in the tennis world.
1999: WTA
Serena Williams dropped out of the top 10 of the Women's Tennis Association rankings for the first time since 1999 after her loss to Maria Sharapova at Wimbledon.
2000: John McEnroe Sparks Controversy with Match-Fixing Comments
During the 2000 Wimbledon semifinal match between Serena and Venus Williams, John McEnroe's commentary ignited controversy when he suggested that Serena might not be "allowed" to win due to potential influence from their father, Richard Williams.
2000: Reflecting on an Unconventional Path
In 2000, Richard Williams defended his decision to take an unconventional approach to his daughters' tennis training, emphasizing that their unique path had proven successful.
2000: Wimbledon Championships
Serena Williams lost to her sister Venus in the semifinals at Wimbledon in 2000 but won the doubles title with her. She also won a gold medal that year at the Sydney Olympics in doubles with Venus.
2000
The Williams sisters began their impressive 15-0 winning streak in Olympic doubles competition at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, Australia. This winning streak would continue for four consecutive Olympic games.
2001
Serena Williams returned to the Indian Wells Masters final in 2001 for the first time since the tournament's inception.
2001: Grand Slam
Serena Williams lost her first Grand Slam tournament in 2001.
2001: Grand Slam
Serena Williams did not win a Grand Slam singles tournament for the first time since 2001.
2001: Australian Open
Serena Williams and her sister Venus won the doubles event at the Australian Open in 2001, making them the fifth doubles team in history to win all four Grand Slam women's doubles titles. That same year, they also became the first sisters to compete against each other in a Grand Slam tournament final at the US Open.
2001: Venus Williams' Withdrawal Fuels Speculation
In 2001, Venus Williams' last-minute withdrawal from her Indian Wells semifinal match against Serena, citing tendinitis, sparked widespread speculation and controversy, with some spectators demanding refunds.
2002: US Open
In 2002, Serena Williams achieved a "Surface Slam" after winning three consecutive Grand Slam titles: the French Open, Wimbledon, and the US Open. This win made her the third woman in history to accomplish this feat after Navratilova (1984) and Graf (1993, 1995, 1996).
2002: Williams and Hingis' Rivalry Concludes in Miami
In 2002, Serena Williams and Martina Hingis concluded their rivalry at the Miami Open, with Williams securing a victory in their final encounter.
2002: Serena's Reign Begins
Marking the start of a period of dominance, Serena Williams began a streak in 2002, capturing four consecutive Grand Slam singles titles, solidifying her status as a tennis legend.
2002: Holding All Four Major Singles Titles
Serena Williams achieved a rare and remarkable feat in 2002, holding all four major singles titles simultaneously, showcasing her unmatched dominance in women's tennis during this period.
2002: First Clay-Court Title Since 2002
Serena Williams won the Family Circle Cup in 2008, marking her first clay-court title since 2002 and extending her winning streak to 17 matches.
2002: Williams Sisters Make History with Consecutive Grand Slam Finals
The Williams sisters, Serena and Venus, made history in 2002 by becoming the first players in the Open Era to compete against each other in four consecutive Grand Slam finals, starting with the 2002 French Open.
2003
Serena Williams received the Celebrity Role Model Award from the Avon Foundation and the "Young Heroes Award" from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater L.A. and Inland in 2003.
2003: French Open
Serena Williams lost to Henin in the semifinals at the French Open in 2003, making it her first loss in a Grand Slam since 2001. This match was controversial as Williams questioned Henin's sportsmanship, and the crowd applauded Williams's errors.
2003
Serena Williams stopped working with her mother, Oracene Price, as her coach in 2003.
2003: Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year
Serena Williams' dominance in tennis was recognized on the global stage in 2003 when she received the prestigious Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year award, a testament to her exceptional achievements.
2003: Wimbledon and US Open Success
Serena Williams reached the Wimbledon finals in 2008 for the first time in four years, where she lost to Venus in their first Grand Slam final since 2003. However, they teamed up to win the doubles title. Serena also triumphed at the US Open, claiming her ninth Grand Slam singles title and returning to No. 1 for the first time since 2003.
2003: Australian Open Victory
Continuing her reign, Serena Williams triumphed at the 2003 Australian Open, completing her "Serena Slam" and further cementing her place in tennis history.
2003: Appears in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue
Serena Williams graced the pages of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue in 2003, showcasing her athleticism and beauty beyond the tennis court.
2003: Australian Open
Serena Williams became the sixth woman in history to win a Career Grand Slam after her win at the 2003 Australian Open. During this tournament, the Williams sisters also won their sixth Grand Slam doubles title together.
2003: Holding All Four Major Singles Titles
Continuing her reign of dominance, Serena Williams maintained her hold on all four major singles titles into 2003, solidifying her place as one of the most dominant tennis players in history.
2003: Top-Ranked American Since 2003
Despite a knee injury that forced her withdrawal from the WTA Championships, Serena Williams finished 2007 as No. 7 and the top-ranked American for the first time since 2003.
2003: Receives NAACP President's Award
In recognition of her contributions to her community, Serena Williams was honored with the NAACP President's Award in 2003.
March 2004: NASDAQ-100 Open
After taking eight months off due to a knee injury, Serena Williams returned to tennis and won the NASDAQ-100 Open for the third consecutive year in March 2004.
2004: Williams and Sharapova's Rivalry Begins at Wimbledon
The rivalry between Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova truly ignited at the 2004 Wimbledon final, where Sharapova caused an upset by defeating the two-time defending champion, Williams.
2004
Serena Williams won the "Family Circle and Prudential Financial Player Who Makes a Difference Award" in 2004.
2004
The last time Serena Williams lost two consecutive finals before 2016 was in 2004, marking a significant period of consistency in her performance at major tournaments.
2004: China Open
Serena Williams won her second title of the year in 2004 at the China Open, defeating Svetlana Kuznetsova in the final.
2004
Serena Williams signed a five-year, $40 million endorsement deal with Nike in 2004.
2004: Appears in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue Again
Serena Williams made a second appearance in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue in 2004, solidifying her status as a sports icon and role model.
2004: US Open
Serena Williams lost to Capriati at the 2004 US Open after a controversial call by umpire Mariana Alves. This controversy is credited with pushing for the adoption of new technologies like the MacCAM and Hawk-Eye systems.
2004: Debuts Denim Skirt and Leg Wraps at US Open
Known for her bold fashion choices, Serena Williams made a statement at the 2004 US Open by wearing a denim skirt and knee-high leg wraps resembling boots, although she was not permitted to wear them during matches.
2005
An ESPN episode was dedicated to a charity tennis tour that Serena and Venus Williams participated in to benefit local Ronald McDonald House charities in 2005.
2005
In 2005, Serena Williams had a mixed year with some notable wins and losses. She defended her title at the Brisbane International, defeating Azarenka, but lost in the fourth round of the Australian Open to Ivanovic. She also experienced early exits at Dubai and Wimbledon, and withdrew from the Wimbledon doubles due to a "viral illness." However, she won her record seventh title at the Miami Open and her third title of the season in Rome.
2005
Serena Williams briefly used the Wilson nCode racket in 2005.
2005: Australian Open Victory
Serena Williams won her second Australian Open and seventh Grand Slam singles title in 2005 after defeating top seed Lindsay Davenport. This victory moved her back to No. 2 in the rankings.
2005: Co-authors "Venus & Serena: Serving From The Hip: 10 Rules For Living, Loving and Winning"
Serena Williams, along with her sister Venus, co-authored the book "Venus & Serena: Serving From The Hip: 10 Rules For Living, Loving and Winning" in 2005, offering insights into their lives and principles for success.
2006: Struggles with Injury and Depression
Serena Williams struggled in 2006 with injuries and depression, leading to a six-month break from tennis. She returned to competition in Cincinnati in July, having slipped to her lowest ranking since 1997.
2007: Laureus World Sports Award for Comeback of the Year
Serena Williams' resilience and determination were on full display in 2007 as she made a triumphant return to form, earning her the Laureus World Sports Award for Comeback of the Year, inspiring fans worldwide.
2007: Return to Tennis with Renewed Confidence
Serena Williams began 2007 with renewed confidence, aiming to return to the top of the rankings. Despite facing skepticism and an early loss in Hobart, she was determined to prove her critics wrong.
2007: Strong Performances and a Wimbledon Collapse
Serena Williams delivered a remarkable performance at the 2007 Australian Open, winning the title and silencing her critics. She also won the Sony Ericsson Open in Miami but faced setbacks with losses to Justine Henin and a collapse during a Wimbledon match.
2007: Return to Form
Despite facing persistent injuries, Serena Williams embarked on a journey of resurgence in 2007, gradually regaining her top form and reclaiming her position as a dominant force in tennis.
2008: Williams and Azarenka's Rivalry Commences
Serena Williams and Victoria Azarenka's rivalry began at the 2008 Australian Open.
2008
Serena Williams helped fund the construction of the Serena Williams Secondary School in Matooni, Kenya, through her foundation in 2008.
2008: Victories and a Quarterfinal Loss
Serena Williams kicked off 2008 by winning the Hopman Cup with Mardy Fish but lost in the Australian Open quarterfinals to Jelena Janković. After dental surgery, she secured three consecutive singles titles in Bangalore and Miami.
2008
Serena Williams started using the Wilson Blade racket in 2008.
2008: Olympic Gold and Strong Year-End Performance
Serena Williams won the gold medal in doubles with Venus at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. She ended the year ranked No. 2 with four singles titles, her best performance in both categories since 2003.
August 2009: Minority Owner of the Miami Dolphins
Serena and Venus Williams became minority owners of the NFL team, the Miami Dolphins, in August 2009, marking the first time African-American women held ownership in an NFL franchise.
2009: Australian Open Victory and Prize Money Record
Serena Williams started 2009 strong by winning her tenth Grand Slam singles title at the Australian Open, defeating Dinara Safina. This victory not only restored her No. 1 ranking but also made her the all-time career prize money leader in women's sports.
2009: Non-Calendar Year Grand Slam
Serena Williams, alongside her sister Venus, achieved a remarkable feat in 2009 by securing the non-calendar year Grand Slam in women's doubles, showcasing their unparalleled dominance as a duo.
2009: Launches Signature Statement Collection
Expanding her entrepreneurial ventures, Serena Williams introduced her Signature Statement collection in 2009, featuring handbags and jewelry sold primarily through the Home Shopping Network.
2009: Releases Autobiography "On the Line" and Appears in Tampax Advertisements
In 2009, Serena Williams released her autobiography titled "On the Line," providing a personal account of her journey. That same year, she broke barriers by becoming the first active female professional athlete to feature in advertisements for Tampax Pearl tampons, challenging societal norms and promoting women's health.
2009: Dominating the Court: A Year of Triumph for Serena Williams
In 2009, Serena Williams had a remarkably successful year, winning three Grand Slam doubles titles with her sister Venus, reaching the finals of the WTA Tour Championships and earning the highest prize money ever won by a female tennis player in a single year.
2009: Holding All Four Major Women's Doubles Titles
Along with her sister Venus, Serena Williams achieved a remarkable feat in 2009, jointly holding all four major women's doubles titles, a testament to their extraordinary synergy and skill as a doubles pairing.
2010: Doubles World No. 1 Ranking
The Williams sisters, Serena and Venus, ascended to the pinnacle of women's doubles tennis in 2010, achieving the coveted world No. 1 ranking, a testament to their exceptional teamwork and skill on the court.
2010: Holding All Four Major Women's Doubles Titles
Serena and Venus Williams continued their dominance in women's doubles, carrying their hold on all four major titles into 2010 and solidifying their place as one of the greatest doubles pairings in tennis history.
2010: Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year
Serena Williams' continued excellence in tennis earned her a second Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year award in 2010, highlighting her sustained dominance and impact on the sport.
2010: US Open Controversy and Fine
Serena Williams was involved in a controversy at the 2010 US Open where she received a code violation and a hefty fine for unsportsmanlike conduct during her semifinal match against Kim Clijsters.
2010: From Victory to Injury: Serena's Rollercoaster Year
Serena Williams began 2010 strong, winning the Australian Open singles and doubles titles. However, a leg injury later in the year forced her to withdraw from several tournaments, including the French Open.
2010: From Victory to Injury: Serena's Rollercoaster Year
Serena Williams began 2010 strong, winning the Australian Open singles and doubles titles. However, a leg injury later in the year forced her to withdraw from several tournaments, including the French Open.
2010: Becomes Certified Nail Technician
In preparation for the launch of her nail collection with HairTech, Serena Williams obtained her nail technician certification in 2010, demonstrating her versatility and passion for the beauty industry.
2010
Serena Williams and other ATP and WTA tennis players skipped their final day of preparation for the Australian Open to help victims of the 2010 Haiti earthquake.
March 2, 2011: Health Concerns Sideline Serena Williams
On March 2, 2011, Serena Williams announced that her absence from the court was due to a hematoma and pulmonary embolism, serious health concerns that required time away from the game to recover.
2011
Serena Williams became an International Goodwill Ambassador with UNICEF in 2011.
2011: Triumph and Controversy Mark Serena's Return
Serena Williams returned to tennis in 2011 after a health scare, winning titles in Stanford and Toronto. However, her year ended with controversy at the US Open, where she was fined for her conduct towards the umpire during the final.
2012: Resilience and Records: Serena's Road to Wimbledon Glory
Despite an ankle injury early in the year, Serena Williams achieved significant victories in 2012. She secured her fifth Wimbledon singles title, setting a new record for aces served in a tournament.
2012: Wimbledon and Olympic Glory
In 2012, Serena Williams etched her name in history by clinching the Wimbledon Championships and securing Olympic gold, completing the coveted Career Golden Slam in singles.
2012
Serena Williams hired Patrick Mouratoglou as her coach in 2012.
2013: Serena Williams Achieves Third-Fastest Serve in WTA History
Serena Williams etched her name in the record books at the 2013 Australian Open by delivering the third-fastest serve ever recorded in WTA history, clocking in at a staggering 128.6 mph (207 km/h) ace against Ayumi Morita.
2013: Serena's Spectacular Season: A Showcase of Skill and Determination
Serena Williams dominated the 2013 season, winning multiple titles including the French Open and US Open. She secured her place as world No. 1 and broke several records, including becoming the oldest woman to hold the top ranking in the Open Era.
2013: Serena's Spectacular Season: A Showcase of Skill and Determination
Serena Williams dominated the 2013 season, winning multiple titles including the French Open and US Open. She secured her place as world No. 1 and broke several records, including becoming the oldest woman to hold the top ranking in the Open Era.
2013: Serena's Spectacular Season: A Showcase of Skill and Determination
Serena Williams dominated the 2013 season, winning multiple titles including the French Open and US Open. She secured her place as world No. 1 and broke several records, including becoming the oldest woman to hold the top ranking in the Open Era.
2014: Founded Serena Ventures
In 2014, Serena Williams established Serena Ventures, a venture capital firm focused on investing in startup companies that prioritize diversity and inclusion, aiming to create a more equitable playing field for women and people of color.
2014: Holding All Four Major Singles Titles
In a testament to her enduring excellence, Serena Williams once again achieved the remarkable feat of holding all four major singles titles simultaneously in 2014, proving her ability to consistently perform at the highest level.
2014
Serena Williams began hosting "The Serena Williams Ultimate Fun Run" to support the Williams Sisters Fund in 2014.
2014: Serena Williams' Earliest Defeat at Australian Open Since 2014
Serena Williams experienced her earliest defeat at the Australian Open since 2014 when she lost in the quarterfinals to Karolina Pliskova in 2019.
2014
Serena Williams had a stellar 2014 season. She bounced back from a mid-year slump to win the US Open, her third consecutive and sixth overall title at the tournament. This victory tied her with Evert for most US Open singles titles in the Open Era. She also claimed the WTA Finals title for the seventh time and finished the year ranked No. 1 for the fourth time in her career, holding the top spot for the entire calendar year.
2014: Second "Serena Slam" Begins
Serena Williams initiated her second "Serena Slam" in 2014, marking another era of her dominance in women's tennis.
December 2015: Sportsperson of the Year
Serena Williams' exceptional year in 2015 was capped off with a prestigious honor as she was named Sportsperson of the Year by Sports Illustrated magazine, solidifying her status as a global sporting icon.
2015: Serena Williams Returns to US Open Series
Serena Williams returned to the US Open series in 2018 after a three-year absence, last competing in the tournament series in 2015. Her return was marked by a first-round loss at the Silicon Valley Classic.
2015: Holding All Four Major Singles Titles and Achieving the Surface Slam
Serena Williams' dominance reached new heights in 2015 as she held all four major singles titles and accomplished the impressive feat of winning the Surface Slam, claiming major titles on hard, clay, and grass courts within the same calendar year.
2015
Serena Williams suffered an elbow injury in 2015 that forced her to withdraw from the Internazionali BNL d'Italia after playing only one match.
2015: Pacific Life Open
Serena Williams boycotted the Pacific Life Open in Indian Wells from 2001 to 2015 after her father was subjected to racist comments during the tournament in 2001.
2015
Serena Williams partnered with the Equal Justice Initiative for her return to Indian Wells in 2015 after a 14-year boycott.
2015
Serena Williams had a remarkable run in 2015, winning both the French Open and Wimbledon. At the French Open, she defeated Šafářová to claim her third French Open and 20th Grand Slam singles title. This achievement made her only the third person in history to win each Grand Slam at least three times. At Wimbledon, she defeated Muguruza, avenging her previous Grand Slam defeat, and claimed her sixth Wimbledon singles title and 21st Grand Slam singles title overall.
2015: Second "Serena Slam" Completed
Serena Williams concluded her second "Serena Slam" in 2015, solidifying her legacy as one of the greatest tennis players of all time.
2015
Serena Williams became the Chief Sporting Officer for Aston Martin in 2015.
2015
Serena Williams began 2015 by reaching the final of the Hopman Cup and then winning her sixth Australian Open singles title, defeating Sharapova for the 16th consecutive time. This victory marked her 19th Grand Slam singles title, surpassing both Evert and Navratilova for the second-most Grand Slam singles titles in the Open Era. She also made a triumphant return to the Indian Wells Masters after a 14-year boycott, receiving a standing ovation from the crowd, and won her record eighth title in Miami.
September 5, 2016
Serena Williams tied Steffi Graf's record for the longest run as world No. 1 on September 5, 2016, marking a historic moment in women's tennis.
December 10, 2016
Alexis Ohanian proposed to Serena Williams on December 10, 2016.
2016: Serena Williams vs. Angelique Kerber Wimbledon Final Rematch
The 2018 Wimbledon final was a rematch of the 2016 Wimbledon final between Serena Williams and Angelique Kerber. Kerber won both times, defeating Williams in the 2018 semifinal.
2016
Serena and Venus Williams founded the Yetunde Price Resource Center in Compton, California, in honor of their late half-sister, Yetunde, in 2016.
2016: Highest-Paid Female Athlete
Serena Williams' remarkable achievements on the court translated to significant financial success in 2016, as she became the world's highest-paid female athlete, earning nearly $29 million.
2016: Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year
Serena Williams' remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication to tennis were once again honored in 2016 with her third Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year award, solidifying her legacy as one of the greatest female athletes of all time.
2016: Voices Support for Black Lives Matter
Serena Williams used her platform to express her support for the Black Lives Matter movement on her Facebook page in 2016, raising awareness and advocating for racial justice.
2016
In 2016, retired tennis player Li Na stated that Serena Williams had an 80% chance of serving an ace when down a break point.
2016: Writes Open Letter on Gender Equality
In 2016, Serena Williams penned a powerful open letter published in Porter Magazine advocating for gender equality, highlighting the disparities and challenges women face in sports and beyond.
2016
In 2016, Serena Williams experienced her first loss in the Fed Cup while playing for the United States team. The week of April 20 marked her 114th consecutive week ranked No. 1, the third-longest run in WTA history at the time. However, her 50-match winning streak at Premier-Mandatory events ended with a defeat in the semifinals of the Mutua Madrid Open.
April 19, 2017: Serena Williams Announces Pregnancy
On April 19, 2017, Serena Williams announced she was 20 weeks pregnant, revealing that she was pregnant when she won the Australian Open earlier that year. This news meant she would miss the rest of the season.
September 1, 2017: Serena Williams Gives Birth to Daughter
Serena Williams gave birth to her daughter, Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr., on September 1, 2017. She experienced complications after the delivery, suffering a pulmonary embolism that delayed her return to training.
November 16, 2017
Serena Williams and Alexis Ohanian were married on November 16, 2017, in New Orleans.
2017
Serena Williams said she had "never really practiced" the Jehovah's Witness faith in 2017.
2017
Wilson released the Wilson Blade SW104, a signature racket designed to Serena Williams's specifications, in 2017.
2017
Serena Williams became an ambassador for the Allstate Foundation's Purple Purse project in 2017.
2017: Serena Williams Returns to Australian Open After Winning in 2017
Serena Williams returned to the Australian Open in 2019 for the first time since winning the tournament in 2017.
2017: Record-Breaking Australian Open Win
Serena Williams achieved a historic feat at the 2017 Australian Open by securing her 23rd major singles title, surpassing Steffi Graf's Open Era record and etching her name in the annals of tennis history.
2017: Serena Williams Wins Seventh Australian Open Title
In 2017, Serena Williams won the Australian Open for a record seventh time, defeating her sister Venus in the final. This victory marked her 23rd Grand Slam singles title, surpassing Steffi Graf's record of 22. It was also the first time in the Open Era that two players aged 35 or older competed in a Grand Slam final.
2017: Highest-Paid Female Athlete
Serena Williams maintained her position as the world's highest-paid female athlete in 2017, earning $27 million and securing her spot as the only woman on Forbes' list of the 100 highest-paid athletes.
January 5, 2018: Serena Williams Withdraws from Australian Open
On January 5, 2018, Serena Williams withdrew from the Australian Open, stating that she was not sufficiently prepared following her pregnancy.
2018
Serena Williams joined the board of directors at SurveyMonkey in 2018.
2018: Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year
Serena Williams' unparalleled impact on tennis and her inspirational journey earned her a record-breaking fourth Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year award in 2018, cementing her status as a true icon of the sport.
2018
Serena Williams withdrew from the 2018 French Open before her fourth-round match.
2018: Serena Williams Returns to Tennis After Childbirth
Serena Williams returned to tennis in 2018 after giving birth to her daughter. She played an exhibition match in Abu Dhabi in December 2017, losing to Jelena Ostapenko. Her official return came in February 2018 at the Fed Cup.
2018: Serena and Venus Williams Reunite for Doubles at US Open
In 2018, Serena and Venus Williams teamed up for doubles at the US Open, marking their first time playing together since 2018. The sister duo's run ended with a loss to the Czech pair of Lucie Hradecká and Linda Nosková.
2018: Serena Williams' Worst Career Loss and Sister's Murderer's Parole
In 2018, Serena Williams suffered the worst loss of her career in the first round of the Silicon Valley Classic against Johanna Konta. She later revealed that she had learned on Instagram before the match that the man who murdered her half-sister, Yetunde Price, in 2003 had been released on parole.
2018: Responds to Tennys Sandgren's Controversial Tweets
In 2018, Serena Williams responded to insensitive and controversial tweets made by fellow tennis player Tennys Sandgren, emphasizing the need for accountability and respect for all communities.
2018: Wears Catsuit and Tutu at French Open and US Open
Continuing to push boundaries in tennis fashion, Serena Williams wore a catsuit at the 2018 French Open to promote her clothing line, which was later banned by the French Tennis Federation. She also sported a black tutu during her first match at the 2018 US Open, showcasing her unique style.
2018: Tennis.com Panel Names Williams Greatest Female Tennis Player
A panel assembled by Tennis.com in 2018 reached a consensus, echoing the sentiment that Serena Williams stands as the greatest female tennis player of all time.
February 2019: Appointed to Poshmark Board of Directors and Launches S by Serena
Serena Williams's influence in the fashion world continued to grow in February 2019 when she was appointed to the board of directors of Poshmark, an online fashion marketplace. Later that year, she debuted her clothing line, S by Serena, inspired by 1990s streetwear and designed to be inclusive of all body types and sizes.
March 2019: US Women's Soccer Team Honors Williams
In a tribute to inspiring women, the United States women's national soccer team members sported jerseys with the names of their female role models on the back during their match in March 2019, with Crystal Dunn choosing to honor Serena Williams.
December 2019: Serena Williams Named Female Athlete of the Decade
In December 2019, The Associated Press recognized Serena Williams's unparalleled dominance in sports by naming her the Female Athlete of the Decade for the 2010s.
2019: Serena Williams Reaches Wimbledon Final
In 2019, Serena Williams reached the Wimbledon final, marking the 13th consecutive year she had played in a Grand Slam final. She became the oldest Grand Slam finalist in the Open Era but lost the final to Simona Halep in straight sets.
2019: Williams and Sharapova's Final Showdown
Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova had their final match in the first round of the 2019 US Open, with Williams emerging victorious in straight sets.
January 2020: Serena Williams Wins First Singles Title as a Mother
Serena Williams won her first singles title as a mother at the ASB Classic in January 2020, defeating Jessica Pegula in the final.
July 2020: Part of Investor Group Awarded NWSL Franchise
In July 2020, Serena Williams joined a predominantly female investor group that was awarded a new franchise in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL), marking a significant moment for women's sports in the United States.
2020
Serena Williams withdrew from the 2020 French Open before her second-round match.
2020: Tennis Channel Ranks Williams as Top Female Player
In 2020, the Tennis Channel bestowed upon Serena Williams the title of the greatest female tennis player in history, solidifying her standing in the sport.
2020
Serena Williams began using the Wilson Blade SW102 Autograph, a smaller variant of her signature racket, in 2020.
2020: Williams and Azarenka's Rivalry Continues
In 2020, Serena Williams and Victoria Azarenka's rivalry continued, with their most recent encounter taking place in the semifinals of the 2020 US Open.
2020: Greatest Female Tennis Player in History
In recognition of her unparalleled achievements, the Tennis Channel bestowed upon Serena Williams the honor of being named the greatest female tennis player in history in 2020, a testament to her enduring legacy and impact on the sport.
February 2021
Serena Williams hired a tennis coach for her three-year-old daughter, Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr., in February 2021.
December 2021: Serena Williams Withdraws from 2022 Australian Open
In December 2021, Serena Williams announced her withdrawal from the 2022 Australian Open due to a recurring leg injury.
2021: Serena Williams Plays 1000th Match
Serena Williams played her 1000th career match in 2021 against Nadia Podoroska in the second round of the Italian Open. Williams lost the match in straight sets.
2021: Executive Produces "King Richard"
Serena and Venus Williams took on the role of executive producers for the 2021 biographical film "King Richard," which tells the inspiring story of their father, Richard Williams, and his pivotal role in shaping their tennis careers.
June 2022: Serena Williams Returns to Professional Tennis
Serena Williams returned to professional tennis in June 2022 after recovering from a leg injury. She teamed up with Ons Jabeur for the Eastbourne International doubles tournament.
August 2022: Serena Announces Retirement
In August 2022, Serena Williams revealed her decision to step away from professional tennis, marking the beginning of her "evolution" beyond the sport.
September 2022: Twitter Recognizes Williams as Most Tweeted-About Female Athlete
In September 2022, Twitter acknowledged Serena Williams as the most tweeted-about female athlete of all time, highlighting her immense global popularity and influence.
September 2022: Serena Williams Announces Retirement Plans
In September 2022, Serena Williams revealed her decision to "evolve away" from tennis following the 2022 US Open, signaling her upcoming retirement. She shared her intentions to prioritize her family and venture capital firm.
2022: McEnroe Crowns Williams "GOAT of GOATs"
John McEnroe, in 2022, hailed Serena Williams as an "icon" and bestowed upon her the ultimate accolade of "GOAT of GOATs."
2022: Angel City FC Begins Play
The new NWSL team, Angel City FC, commenced play in 2022 with Serena Williams as part of the ownership group.
2022
Serena Williams concluded her coaching relationships with Richard Williams and Patrick Mouratoglou in 2022. She began working with Eric Hechtman and Rennae Stubbs the same year.
2022
Information about Serena Williams's tennis career is current through the 2022 US Open.
2022: Serena Ventures Raises Over $110 Million
By 2022, Serena Ventures had successfully raised more than $110 million in funding, demonstrating its impact and success in supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs and businesses.
August 2023
Serena Williams gave birth to her second daughter, Adira River Ohanian, in August 2023.
2023: Receives NAACP Jackie Robinson Sports Award
Serena Williams received the prestigious NAACP Jackie Robinson Sports Award in 2023, acknowledging her impact on and off the court, particularly her efforts in promoting social justice.
2023
Serena Williams was baptized as a Jehovah's Witness in 2023.