Serena Williams Shifts Focus to Business After Tennis

The tennis legend is applying her competitive drive to new ventures after retiring from the sport.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Serena Williams, the iconic tennis champion, has transitioned her relentless drive and competitive spirit to new business ventures after retiring from professional tennis. In a recent interview, Williams discussed how she is applying the same intensity and work ethic that made her one of the greatest athletes of all time to her growing portfolio of investments and entrepreneurial projects.

Why it matters

Serena Williams' move from the tennis court to the boardroom is a high-profile example of how elite athletes can successfully transition their skills and mindset to the business world. Her ability to excel in a new field after dominating her sport for decades is an inspiration to others looking to reinvent themselves after the end of their athletic careers.

The details

Since stepping away from tennis, Williams has become an active investor and advisor, backing a diverse range of startups in industries like fashion, wellness, and technology. She has also launched her own venture capital firm focused on supporting underrepresented founders. In interviews, Williams has emphasized that the same competitive drive, work ethic, and desire to win that fueled her tennis success are now being channeled into building a business empire.

  • Serena Williams retired from professional tennis in 2022 after a legendary career spanning over 20 years.
  • She has been actively pursuing business ventures since her retirement in 2022.

The players

Serena Williams

A former professional tennis player who is widely considered one of the greatest athletes of all time, having won 23 Grand Slam singles titles. She is now focused on building a business empire after retiring from tennis.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The same drive that made me successful on the court is what I'm bringing to my businesses. I'm as competitive as ever, I just have a different playing field now.”

— Serena Williams (TimesDaily)

The takeaway

Serena Williams' transition from tennis superstar to successful businesswoman demonstrates how elite athletes can leverage their unique skills and mindset to thrive in new fields after their playing careers end. Her story provides inspiration for others seeking to reinvent themselves and apply their competitive drive to new challenges beyond sports.