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She was no doubt the best of her era, and arguably of any era. She serves as an inspiration to millions of people who weren't born with a silver spoon, come from a minority background or are largely not privy to as many opportunities normal society offers.

Against the Odds

Serena showed what hardwork, an unending drive to succeed, and burning desire could do when mixed with a unique skillset that wasn't common in that women's game at the time. She and her sister utilized their physicality and more or less overpowered their opponents. During their prime, there was no one who simply could stop them and that unique skill set also played a major role in their longevity.

Serena accomplished what few Tennis athletes (male or female) could only dream of. She won all Four Grand Slam Titles (multiple times), an Olympic singles and doubles title as well as several other major titles on the WTA tour. She was ranked World number one multiple times in singles and doubles (with her sister Venus) and held it for 186 consecutive weeks at a time which is a joint record.

No doubt when we talk about Serena Williams her achievements speak for itself. No doubt she retires as an accomplished athlete as there was very little left for her to do in the sport. Yet late into her thirties and with a baby, Serena still competed with the same desire and passion to see her succeed.

The One That Got Away

While we would never really understand an athletes drive, it was obvious at one point that there was something pushing Serena on even when it was clear that she was well past her best, and was plagued by Injuries. Retirement would likely have come earlier had this been accomplished but it remained the one thing that eluded her throughout her career.

You see, Serena holds the Open era Record of 23 Grand Slam Titles for an athlete, male or female. The Open era refers to a period where professional Tennis players were allowed to compete in Grand Slams, and started in 1968. Her 23 Titles stood one short of the all time record of 24 held by Margaret Court.

As much as she had tried to downplay its importance, I am convinced that the record has always been at the back of her mind. At a point it felt like she would break it easily, but it wasn't to be. After winning the 23rd Grand Slam title in 2017, she would go on to reach a Grand Slam final four times and lose each of them.

Does the Record Matter?

The All time record held by Margaret Court was in an era where amateur Tennis reigned, so it can be lightly regarded by some pundits. However, the fact remains that the record stands, and until broken the stats will show her as the all time Grand Slams leader.

It shouldn't matter to Serena though, who is gladly getting all the respect and accolades she deserves after making good her decision to step away. She may not top the list of all time Grand Slam winners, but Serena will always be one of the very best athletes to ever grace any era with her presence.