«Limitations exist only in the mind»: Venus Williams reflects on achievement and age
Featured in a glossy magazine
Legendary American tennis star Venus Williams is the cover star of the latest issue of Grazia UK. In the interview, the five-time Wimbledon champion and four-time Olympic gold medalist reflects on age, her sporting career, her personal life, and her own perspective on success.
For the cover story, Venus showcased striking looks from Givenchy, Jacquemus, Stella McCartney, Lacoste, and other renowned fashion houses.
The athlete celebrated her 46th birthday last week. Yet she is not considering retirement in the slightest. Instead, she is preparing for her 25th Wimbledon appearance, where she will compete in the doubles tournament alongside her younger sister, Serena Williams.
«Recently, I caught myself thinking: Am I really already 46? The most remarkable thing is that I feel just as strong as ever. Limitations exist only in our minds», the tennis star said, adding that she is not afraid of change and embraces every new stage of life with gratitude.
«Everything around us changes, but I feel comfortable at my age. Growing older doesn’t frighten me as long as I remain strong and healthy. If you take good care of yourself, you’ll be happy with your life», she emphasized.
Throughout her career, Williams has repeatedly proven her ability to break barriers and challenge stereotypes. She became one of the most influential Black athletes of the Open Era. However, her journey to the top was marked not only by victories but also by significant challenges, including an autoimmune disease diagnosis, surgery, a lengthy absence from competition, and a difficult return to the court.
Yet, in her view, it is precisely those hardships that help people move forward.
«Everyone sees the victories, but no one knows what you go through behind the scenes. Defeats are a huge part of success. The key is learning how to deal with them and not allowing setbacks to define your future», the champion noted.
Today, Venus’s life extends far beyond tennis. She successfully runs several business ventures, heads a design company, has published a book, produces plant-based protein products, and co-hosts a podcast with Serena. At the end of last year, her personal life also entered a new chapter when she married Italian actor Andrea Preti.
Photo: Grazia UK
