"I would have landed in the arts somehow": Venus Williams believes career in art or fashion would have arose if not for tennis

WTA icon Venus Williams has one of the most successful tennis careers in history, but the American claims she would have been involved in the arts had she not been an athlete.

The former World No.1 has won seven singles Grand Slam titles, 14 Grand Slam doubles titles, and two mixed doubles titles. Williams helped change the perception of women's tennis by introducing the world to her powerful and aggressive playing style.

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However, the 42-year old also has a passion for fashion and arts. In a recent interview with PAPERMAG, Williams spoke about the depth of her love for the arts and how she remains active in that industry.

"If I hadn't been an athlete, I would have landed in the arts somehow," Williams said. "It's hard to say what would have happened but that's how it feels in my heart. I went to lots of art schools. I went to fashion school. I went to interior design school. I was always in school.

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"In terms of getting involved with the fine art world, I had a lawyer who unfortunately passed, and he was a friend of our family for so long and I asked him how to get involved. His sons are great artists and they started showing me around."

Williams' passion for art was so great, the American found herself accumulating art books all over her house and had to relocate them to her office.

"I have so many art books in my house and have to transfer them to my office because I need more space to hold them," she added.