“I’haven’t held up a trophy in a long time”: Serena Williams jokes after winning Jackie Robinson Sports Award

Serena Williams received the Jackie Robinson Sports Award at the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Image Awards.

The award is named after the legendary baseball player who was the first African American to play in Major League Baseball. The tennis player retired in 2022 in the third round of the US Open after being defeated by the Australian Ajla Tomljanovic.

The person in charge of delivering the award to the former world No. 1 was the actress Kerry Washington who is also a friend of Williams. Accepting the trophy, the American joked about gaining a new recognition:

“I haven’t held up a trophy in a long time,' she said. 'Do I do it like this? [Laughs] Thank you. It’s such an honor to have a friend present this award to me today. I am incredibly grateful for your incredible kind words and your unwavering support over the years," Williams said.

The 23-time Grand Slam champion received an award that had already been won by great world sports legends such as Michael Jordan and Lebron James. The North American thanked the work of the NAACP:

"Thank you to the NAACP, which continues to accelerate change with important areas such as health care, education, sports, the economy and so, so much more. The tireless efforts of your organization are making a difference in the lives of African Americans today and tomorrow."

"I'd also like to thank the image awards and the Hollywood bureau for honoring me with the Jackie Robinson award tonight. Still incredible for me. I am super humbled to be amongst the greatest names in today’s culture, celebrating those who promote equity through creative endeavors," said the former tennis player.

Serena Williams also acknowledged being a fan of many of the stars who were part of the award:

"This event continues to acknowledge the contributions of those who have pursued their craft in television, film, music and literature. So much more. I know this might be surprising to you, but I feel like a fangirl to be in this room around so many artists who have played my favorite characters in so many stories that made me cry, laugh, anything marvel. And anything in between."