"I wouldn't have done that without her": Venus Williams recalls Serena Williams being behind Indian Wells return after racial abuse
WTASaturday, 20 May 2023 at 07:00
Venus
Williams spoke about the inspiration she received from her sister Serena
Williams to return to Indian Wells.
The 7-time
Grand Slam champion revealed that her younger sister was the factor that
allowed her to come back to Indian Wells. In 2001, the sisters were supposed to
face each other in the semifinals of the WTA 1000 tournament held in
California, but prior to the match, Venus had to withdraw due to tendinitis,
granting Serena a spot in the final.
Following
Venus's decision, both sisters faced racist insults from some fans, even after
Serena defeated Kim Clijsters in the final. Despite it being their home state,
the Williams sisters did not return to the tournament until 2015 when the
23-time Grand Slam champion made her appearance again.
As for Venus Williams,
she made her comeback in 2016, influenced by her sister, as she mentioned in an
Instagram Q&A session:
“Serena was
definitely my motivation to return to Indian Wells. I wouldn’t have done that
without her so. I’m so glad, though. Because it’s amazing playing in
California, where I’m from, it’s awesome playing in the States too. There’s
nothing like playing where you’re from. So I thank her a lot for that,” Venus said.
“Although,
I haven’t got a chance to play in so long!” she wrote.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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