After her breakthrough singles title in 2000, Venus addressed societal barriers. "Yeah, it had to be hard because people were unable to see past color," she said.
She noted ongoing racial dynamics. "Still these days, it’s hardly any different, because you have to realise it’s only been 40 years.
How can you change years and centuries of being biased in 40 years? So realistically, not too much has changed.
But I really appreciate how hard it was.
You realise not everyone wants you to win, not everyone’s going to support you — and that’s OK," said Venus.
By 2002, Serena had defeated her sister in the singles final. She described establishing her individual identity.
"I used to think I was Venus," she said. She realized small differences.
"I thought I liked things she liked. I realized I don’t like tomatoes.
I don’t like mushrooms. I had to realize I was a different kind of person.
I think this kind of helped.
From little things like that to bigger things, I realize I’m a totally different person than she is," said Serena.
When asked if an expiring footwear contract motivated her, Serena responded: "Well, I definitely am. I’m really exciting.
I smile a lot. I win a lot, and I’m really sexy."
Djokovic and Other Matches
Seven-time champion Novak Djokovic begins his bid for a 25th Grand Slam title on Monday against Wu Yibing.
Defending women's champion Iga Swiatek opens her tournament against Taylor Townsend on Tuesday at 1:30 p. m.
local time.
That is followed by an opening-round match between Taylor Fritz and Jack Draper, prior to the final Centre Court match between Williams and Joint.
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The tournament runs for two weeks, with the women's singles final on Saturday, July 11, and the men's singles final on Sunday, July 12.
