Despite her impressive earnings, the former tennis ace reveals a surprising lack of financial awareness and struggles to properly manage her money early in her success.
- July 8, 2024
AceShowbiz - Serena Williams, one of tennis' all-time greats, shared a humorous yet enlightening story during her appearance on the popular show "Hot Ones". While discussing her incredible career with host Sean Evans, Williams, 42, reminisced about the time she attempted to deposit her first $1 million check via a drive-thru ATM.
The former tennis sensation explained, "I never really spent a lot of money. I was just so serious. So I just went to the drive through, and the guy was like, 'Uh, I think you need to come inside for this.' " It was a humble reminder that even the most successful people have their learning moments.
Serena Williams was never driven by money. "I never played for money. I played because I loved the sport. I wanted to be the best. I wanted to win," she revealed. Williams' passion for tennis and her relentless drive to improve took precedence over financial gain. Her focus was on winning, often to the extent that she would forget about her prize money. "My tax guy, he would be like, 'You didn't get your money,' and I was like, 'You didn't get your money,' and I would be like, 'Oh, I didn't get that one in Zurich, I forgot that one in Moscow,' " she humorously recounted.
Off the court, Williams has transitioned from professional tennis to motherhood and entrepreneurship with the same intensity that defined her playing days. She is dedicated to raising her daughters, Olympia, 6, and Adira, 11 months, with husband Alexis Ohanian. "I have to be the best mom," Williams told PEOPLE. "I have to go to all of Olympia's things at her school. I literally show up." Her competitive spirit now fuels her efforts to be an exemplary mother.
Simultaneously, Serena channels her energy into her beauty brand, Wyn, and her commitment to empowering women and people of color. She proudly stated, "I invest in women. I invest in people of color and that is very competitive." These endeavors allow her to maintain her competitive edge while making a significant impact off the court.
Serena Williams' journey from tennis court triumphs to personal milestones is a testament to her unwavering determination. Her story offers a valuable lesson: greatness isn't just about winning games; it's also about continually striving to be better in every facet of life.
