On the tennis courts, Serena Williams is one of the most decorated and celebrated women’s singles stars of all time. However, off the court, the American icon has faced more than her fair share of scrutiny and criticism. Recently, she opened up about how she approaches the hate she receives.
Williams first rose to fame in 1999 when she won her maiden Grand Slam title at the US Open. Over the next two decades, the 44-year-old shot to stardom worldwide, winning 22 more major titles and holding the No. 1 ranking for an incredible 319 weeks.
During a recent episode of *Stockton Street*, a podcast she co-hosts with her sister Venus Williams, Serena spoke candidly about the criticism she has faced throughout her career. She revealed that, at one point, the hate actually fueled her drive. “For me, I needed it. I liked someone saying I couldn’t. Once I heard you can’t, that was it. It’s almost like if you’re hating on me, please get in line. Also, it’s a very long line, you’re going to have to go way back there,” she said.
Beyond the criticism of their games and results, both Williams sisters have also endured racist and sexist behavior from fans and media alike throughout their rise to the top.
### Serena Williams Honoured with the ‘Giving Tree Award’ at Baby2Baby Gala
On Saturday, November 8, Serena Williams attended the 14th annual Baby2Baby Gala. Based in the USA, Baby2Baby is a nonprofit organization that provides critical aid such as diapers, clothes, and disaster relief to children in need.
At the gala, Williams was honoured with the Giving Tree Award. In her heartfelt acceptance speech, she delivered an important message about compassion and giving back:
> “Every child deserves a fair chance. Every mother deserves to be supported and uplifted, and each of us bears the power, no matter the duty, to turn that hope into reality. Giving back isn’t just charity; it’s justice, it’s dignity, and the baby is leading this movement, showing us what’s possible when compassion meets action. So I would like to thank you all for celebrating me.”
### Serena Williams’ Tennis Legacy and Current Ventures
As a tennis player, Serena Williams won 23 singles and 16 doubles Grand Slam titles over two decades. She also spent 319 weeks as World No. 1 and claimed five WTA Tour Finals titles, along with four Olympic gold medals.
Since retiring from professional tennis, Williams has shifted her focus to her venture capital firm, Serena Ventures, where she continues to make an impact beyond the court.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/tennis/news-if-hating-me-please-get-line-serena-williams-gets-honest-flippant-approach-long-line-critics