Venus Williams, born on June 17, 1980, in Lynwood, California, is a former professional tennis player renowned for her powerful game and significant contributions to the sport. Turning professional in 1994, she achieved world No. 1 rankings in both singles and doubles during her career.
Career Highlights:
- Grand Slam Singles Titles: Williams secured seven major singles titles, including five at Wimbledon and two at the US Open.
- Doubles Success: Teaming up with her sister Serena, she won 14 Grand Slam doubles titles and earned three Olympic gold medals in doubles competition.
- Olympic Achievements: In addition to her doubles golds, Williams clinched a singles gold at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, making her one of the most decorated Olympic tennis players.
Recent Developments:
As of early 2025, Williams has not competed in a full tournament schedule since 2019, primarily due to health challenges, including Sjogren’s syndrome. She last appeared at the 2023 US Open. Despite receiving wildcards for events like the 2024 Indian Wells and Miami Open, she chose to focus on business ventures, such as her interior design company, V Starr. To maintain an active status with the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA), she must pay a $250 administration fee, as her inactivity has affected her ranking.
In a recent interview, Williams expressed no immediate plans to retire from tennis, highlighting her ongoing passion for the sport and her selective approach to tournament participation.
Off-Court Endeavors:
Beyond tennis, Williams is a successful entrepreneur and advocate for financial literacy. She emphasizes the importance of financial education and independence, particularly for women and marginalized groups. Her net worth is estimated to be nearing $100 million, reflecting her diverse business interests and endorsements.