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It was the year 2000. Venus Williams was entering the Wimbledon Championships as the fifth seed. Further, the American legend lifted the title that season, defeating Lindsay Davenport in the summit clash. It was Venus’ first-ever Grand Slam title and a memorable one indeed. Earlier in the tournament, she had knocked out the top seed, Martina Hingis, and her younger sister, Serena Williams.

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The hard work done early on in her career had finally paid off. Her father, Richard Williams, was ecstatic after Venus’ Grand Slam title victory. They had worked day in and day out to reach that stage. Fighting all odds, Venus proved that she was the best in the world. After Venus’ Wimbledon title win in 2000. her father had a strong message to the world.

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Richard Williams made a statement after Venus Williams’ victory

The Williams sisters came from a humble background and made their way to the top in tennis. After Venus clinched her first major title, Richard Williams held a play-card with the message reading, “It’s Venus’ party and no one was invited.” 

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via Getty

Richard Williams was Venus’ first coach and took her and Serena to the public tennis courts to train. Later, Rick Macci went on to become their first professional coach and he struck a great relationship with the Williams family. Together, Macci and Richard played a pivotal role in the successful careers of Serena and Venus.

WATCH THIS STORY: Will Smith Shows How King Richard Cast Trained Like Serena and Venus Williams

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The movie, King Richard, based on the life of Richard Williams was released last year. The audience and the critics widely received the film and it won several honors at the award functions. Earlier this year, the King Richard film won the Oscar in the ‘Best Actor’ category. Will Smith, who played the lead role of Richard, won this honor.

Soon-to-be 42 next month, Venus is on the brink of her tennis career. She has dived into the business world and has found success in her business ventures. Indeed, a true legend on and off the court!