This week (October 16th), ESSENCE unveiled that one of the most revered names in sports history, entrepreneur Serena Williams, was the cover star for the November/December “Holiday and Business Issue.” Following the globally recognized athlete’s retirement in 2022, she embarked on a new journey as a businesswoman, wife, and mother of two. In an intimate conversation with ESSENCE Magazine, she candidly shared that she misses playing tennis while waiting in the carpool line at her daughter’s school, noting that her daughter is a “natural athlete.”

Serena noticed a lack of representation of Black women in her beloved sport very early in her career. Alongside her older sister, Venus Williams, the two became the faces of tennis. In doing so, they inspired a new generation of Black athletes who now dominate the court including Coco Gauff, Naomi Osaka, Taylor Townsend, Madison Keys, Sloane Stephens, Frances Tiafoe, and others. In the interview titled “An Icon Named Serena,” Serena reflects on being inspired by tennis history-maker Billie Jean King, during her efforts to establish equal pay at the Grand Slam with her sister Venus.

Off the court, the 23-time Grand Slam Champion has used her astute business acumen to become an investor in over 85 companies, including 14 “unicorns” (companies valued at $1 billion or more). This success led to the creation of her new beauty line, WYN Beauty. Williams connected with fans at Beautycon during the 2024 ESSENCE Festival of Culture to share important lessons she has learned during her career pivot as a founder. In addition to that, she was honored at the inaugural ESSENCE Black Women in Business dinner. 

Despite expressing her everlasting love for tennis, Serena now finds purpose in motherhood and marriage. Her primary focus is making sure her two daughters feel supported. The Compton native also draws inspiration from fellow 2024 ESSENCE Magazine cover stars Beyoncé and Usher, who she feels have set examples of how to continuously grow your career after reaching living legend status. The full story can be viewed HERE. The 2024 November/December Holiday and Business issue will be available on newsstands on October 29th, 2024. ESSENCE subscribers will receive the exclusive cover starting on October 28th, 2024.

Congrats to Serena on the cover, WYN Beauty and all of her successes. Check out some photos and an interview from the issue below!