Venus Williams made her professional tennis debut in 1994, followed by her sister Serena in 1995. Over two decades later, the Williams sisters have not only dominated the tennis world but have also become central figures in the intersection of sports and pop culture.

Between them, they have amassed an impressive 48 Grand Slam titles, including 14 shared women’s doubles titles. Their accomplishments extend beyond the court, with multiple fashion lines, a venture-capital firm, and an interior-design company.

Venus, now 41, and Serena, 40, continue to play, marking a rare two-decade streak of athletic excellence. Their rise to prominence is extraordinary, especially considering their beginnings as two Black girls from Compton, California.

Their journey has even been immortalized in the film “King Richard,” which they executive-produced. The movie, starring Will Smith, highlights their early years through the lens of their father’s unwavering support and love.

In a recent interview, Venus reflects, “I don’t think people even thought about what happened before we turned pro.” Serena adds, “This isn’t a movie about tennis. This is a movie about family.”

Their conversation reveals a deep connection to their family roots and the strong sense of identity they maintain. Venus, in transit during the interview, and Serena, speaking from her home in Florida, display the controlled and assured demeanor that has defined their media interactions since the start of their careers.

Growing up, the Williams sisters were often referred to simply as “Those Williams Sisters.” In the 1990s, they were known for their beaded braids and infectious smiles, a testament to the love and support they received at home. Venus recalls, “From such a young age, all we’ve done is work. For Serena and I to explore that freedom is surreal.”

Tennis, while not entirely unfamiliar to the author, seemed as otherworldly as golf. Yet, the display of familial love from Venus and Serena was clear and impactful. They became archetypes of deep kinship ties central to the Black American experience. Venus emphasizes the uniqueness of their family, stating, “Our family is just unique to ourselves. It’s important for people to see African American families in that dynamic… to have role modeling.” Despite this, she acknowledges their story’s universal appeal.

Serena likens their story to a superhero narrative: “I am a dreamer, and I love Marvel. I think King Richard is like Iron Man and that there still are other stories around it.” She envisions future stories focusing on Venus, their other sisters, and their mother, highlighting the multifaceted nature of their family’s legacy.