Serena Williams has dominated women's professional tennis since the late 1990s, when she and her sister, Venus, became global tennis superstars. Serena in particular has become known for her determination, powerful game and unique fashion sense.

Serena was born on 26 September 1981 in Saginaw, Michigan. When she was just a baby, her family moved to California, and it was there she started playing tennis at the age of four. She was coached by her father, Richard Williams, until she was 12. Although Mr Williams was determined that his daughters would succeed in the tennis world, he was also focused on giving them a good education. 

In fact, whilst they were training to be tennis stars, he also took responsibility for their home-schooling. 

Serena is so successful on the tennis court because of her rapid movement, speed of thought and powerful shots. Indeed, whilst she was playing a match in the 2013.

Australian Open, Serena hit a serve* at a speed of just under 207 km per hour, the third fastest recorded among female players. This powerful serve helps put her opponents under pressure from the very start of the game. 

During her career, she has won 56 singles championships, 22 doubles championships and was also a gold medallist at the 2000, 2008 and 2012 Olympics.

* to serve (v) - to hit the ball to the other player as a way of starting the game