"History matters" - Venus Williams on being honoured by Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery

| by Jamie Malachy

Venus Williams and her sister, Serena, are among seven new names to have been honoured with portraits by the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery in Washington DC.

The 7-time Grand Slam singles champion has spoken of how affecting she found the portrait, and how important it is to honour history.

Venus Williams hints that retirement may be imminent
Venus Williams hints that retirement may be imminent

"I walked in here and how the portraits strike you. History matters and what you do matters," she said.

The former World No. 1 continued, "I just remember that moment, and it was literally beyond my dreams — and I've had some big dreams. And I've been able to have the opportunity to work for those dreams and live those dreams. But this is way beyond what I could have dreamed. And I can't imagine I'm here tonight. We made it".

Serena Williams also spoke of the wider significance of the newly-unveiled portraits, paying tribute to their recognition of black women's contribution to American society.

In her speech at the event, the 23-time major single champion said, "I think it's so important for the National Portrait Gallery to see a black woman smiling. Black women are often seen as serious, and we are, but we are happy as well. We are the mothers. We are wives. And we are the backbone of this country".

Serena announced she was 'evolving' away from tennis this summer, which sparked an emotional farewell tour across the US hard-court swing. Her older sister, Venus, has not yet made such an announcement.

However, there has been growing speculation about the future of the tennis superstar, especially after enduring a season in which she failed to win a single match.

Whatever path these two remarkable women take next, there can absolutely no doubt that they have already left an indelible mark on the sport, and their wider societal impact will be felt for generations to come.

“Serena Williams has taught me so much" - Venus Williams on growing up with her sister
“Serena Williams has taught me so much" - Venus Williams on growing up with her sister

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