American Oracene Price is the mother and coach of the tennis greats, the Williams sisters. Recently, her youngest daughter, Serena Williams, opened up on the impact her mother made on her life and career.
Coaching the two, Price has been behind 149 career titles. In addition to Oracene’s role as a tennis coach, Serena emphasized the support her mother lent her when Serena had a baby.
In 2007, former World No. 1 Serena gave birth to daughter Olympia. Surprising everyone, the 39-year-old returned to tennis the very next year. “I’ve always been inspired by my mom,” Williams said. “But I’ve never been inspired to the level that I am now.”
Tennis demands touring all-year-round; therefore, it would have been difficult for Williams to stay at home for too long. However, Olympia’s grandmother came to the rescue.
Read More: “She Never Stops”: Serena Williams Reveals Venus Williams’ Positive Impact on Her Career
Serena Williams on her mother’s support after Olympia
Returning to tennis after giving birth, Williams finished as the runner-up at Wimbledon and US Open the same year. Ever since then, the 23-time Grand Slam champion has been on a quest for her 24th major.
For Serena to be able to pursue her passion, her mother took care of her daughter. This made the 39-year-old feel more inspired by her mother. Serena elaborated, “I respect her so much more. Not that I didn’t, but I think when I had a baby, I relied on her more than I ever have. I never expected that, so that’s really cool for me.”
To date, the 4-time Gold medallist is the record-holder of most major titles in the Open Era. This year, she aims to equal Margaret Court’s all-time most major titles record.
Serena to begin again at the Australian Open 2021
Williams withdrew from her second-round match at the 2020 French Open on account of an Achilles’ injury. That ended her season last year. However, the 73 career titles owner is now ready to win at major tournaments again. She will begin her 2021 tennis campaign at the opening Grand Slam of the year.
Previously, Serena has won the Australian Open four times in her career. Her last Grand Slam also came at the Happy Slam in 2017.
Considering her age and her stronger-than-ever opponents, it will be very difficult for Williams to win. But given the support of her family and fans, she will try with all her might to accomplish her goal.
Do you think she will equal Margaret Court or say goodbye to tennis in 2021?
