Serena Williams took the stage as a speaker at the Shop.Org conference in Las Vegas on Friday. The tennis star, sporting a ponytail, showcased a business chic look with a pencil skirt paired casually with sneakers and a plain white tee.
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.
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.
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.
The conversation also delved into Williams’ experiences balancing motherhood with her professional career.
She spoke candidly about her dedication to her game, her fashion ventures, and her role as a mother to daughter Olympia, whom she shares with husband Alexis Ohanian.
