The tennis player on being there for her daughter, crying a lot and bringing back dinosaurs… Born in Michigan, Serena Williams, 39 made her professional tennis debut at the age of 14. The winner of four Olympic gold medals and 23 grand slam singles titles, Serena is married to Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian. They have a three-year-old daughter and live in Beverly Hills. She recently launched a luggage collection with global lifestyle brand Away.
What is your greatest fear?
Not being there, and around enough, for my daughter.
What is your earliest memory?
Hanging out on the porch in Compton with my sisters. Apparently, we had just moved there.
Which living person do you most admire and why?
My mom and dad. They always encouraged me to keep spiritual things first.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
Being too busy.
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
Pre-judging.
What was your most embarrassing moment?
I don’t get embarrassed.
What is your most treasured possession?
My Bible.
If you could bring something extinct back to life, what would you choose?
I would say dinosaurs. But as we’ve seen in all five Jurassic Park movies and the animated series, that probably wouldn’t go well.
What is your most unappealing habit?
Biting my nails.
What is your favourite smell?
Lemongrass and rose.
What is your favourite word?
Spontaneous.
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
A veterinarian.
What is your guiltiest pleasure?
Salty foods.
What do you owe your parents?
Endless gratitude for my drive, and for my sisters.
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
My daughter, Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr.
What does love feel like?
Like you can do anything.
What was the best kiss of your life?
My wedding day with Alexis.
What has been your biggest disappointment?
Any lost match is, of course, disappointing, but every loss is a lesson to be learned.
When did you last cry, and why?
I cry a lot, so the last time was no big moment.
What single thing would improve the quality of your life?
Taking time every day to read the Bible.
What keeps you awake at night?
My daughter.
What song would you like played at your funeral?
Oh, I am not thinking about that yet.
Where would you most like to be right now?
Rome.
Tell us a secret
I love karaoke.
