Serena Williams’ Heartwarming Speech at Shop.Org: Motherhood, Business, and Moving Forward

Serena Williams took the stage as a speaker at the Shop.Org conference in Las Vegas on Friday. The 36-year-old tennis star, sporting a ponytail, showcased a business chic look with a pencil skirt paired casually with sneakers and a plain white tee.

Keynote: Serena Williams was one of the many speakers at the Shop.Org conference in Las Vegas on Friday

During her appearance alongside Flywheel’s CEO Sarah Robb O’Hagan, Williams focused on themes of teamwork, hard work, and risƙ-taking. Despite not fielding questions from the audience, the discussion touched on her recent U.S. Open loss to Naomi Osaka in New York City.

Natural beauty: The 36-year-old tennis pro wore her hair in a ponytail for the appearance 

The match had been marred by controversy as Williams received three code violations, resulting in a game penalty, for slamming her racket and arguing with the umpire. She was subsequently fined $17,000. O’Hagan acknowledged the incident, praising Williams for her resilience in facing unfair judgments throughout her career.

Boss babe: Williams, who didn't take questions from the audience, spoke with Flywheel's CEO, Sarah Robb O'Hagan, about 'the importance of a great team, hard work, and taking risks'

Williams emphasized the importance of standing up for one’s beliefs, especially when it can impact future generations. Her remarks sparked significant commentary, with tennis legend Billie Jean King highlighting perceived double standards in tennis officiating between male and female players.

Tough loss: The public appearance comes just days after Serena was defeated by Japan's Naomi Osaka at the U.S. Open in NYC

The conversation also delved into Williams’ experiences balancing motherhood with her professional career.Tennis legend: Williams also talked having a baby and making her career 'comeback' as O'Hagan called it. 'Really it's just about having a great team and rolling up your sleeves and hard work,' she explainedShe spoke candidly about her dedication to her game, her fashion ventures, and her role as a mother to one-year-old daughter Olympia, whom she shares with husband Alexis Ohanian.

Making headlines: While the on-stage talk was mostly geared towards fashion, O'Hagan did touch on Williams' dispute with the match umpire. The 23-time Grand Slam champion received three code violations and was penalized one game for slamming her racket and arguing with the ump. She was later fined $17,000'I feel it's really important to stand up for what you believe in,' Serena said in reference to the U.S. Open incident. 'Especially if it can affect the future and affect a lot of people in the future. That's what it's all about'

Party of three: Serena is mom to daughter Olympia, age one. She shares her firstborn with husband Alexis Ohanian