Serena Williams. My Girl! Not only does she dominate on tennis courts the world over, but her athletic presence simply exudes a Champion aroma. The sweet smell of success!
This weekend at Wimbledon 2016, Serena claimed her 22nd grand slam title, tying Steffi Graf for most Major wins in the modern era. In a week that saw our nation's racial divide suffer another gaping blow, Serena's representation of America on foreign soil couldn't have come at a better time. I always say that if you wanna see a diversified, united front of peoples, go to a Raiders game, or any sporting event for that matter. Sports has a way of uniting the most unlikely of neighbors.
This weekend saw the return of former UFC champion Brock Lesnar, saw the crowning of a new UFC female champion Amanda Nunes, saw SF Giants all-star pitcher Madison Bumgarner striking out 14 in a one-hitter shutout, saw Portugal upsetting France in soccer's Euro Championship. And yet, in my mind nothing tops the magic and championship caliber of Serena Williams defeating Angelique Kerber at Wimbledon 7-5 6-3. Oh, maybe a distant second was Serena teaming with sister Venus Williams later in the day to claim her sixth Wimbledon Doubles championship. In my book the weekend honor of being a uniting force for fans of America goes to Serena Williams; a colorful champion.
Of course Serena in her post-game interview was asked her feelings about the recent incidents of American police killing black men as well as the ambush killing of police in Dallas, Texas. Serena answered the question with deep concern and a heavy heart for the loss of life in all three incidents. She voiced her concerns about having male family members being pulled over by police officers in America and at risk of being unjustly harassed, harmed or killed.
The foreign interviewer smoothly transitioned questions back to tennis and Serena gracefully shifted gears, returning the serve. So not only does Serena garner praise for her competitive on-court maneuvers, she's most capable and convicted to voicing her views, and not that of sponsors or league representatives, when it comes to current events that effect her and/or her family. Serena not only has a tennis racquet that won't be silenced, she has character and a Voice!
Here's a link to an article in The Atlantic by Van R. Newkirk II titled:
With the passing recently of the great one, Muhammad Ali, sadly it's almost nostalgic to hear an athlete today speak so freely about race and police violence in America. Unfortunately, it's a sign that we haven't come as far as those 1960's American freedom fighters for racial equality and justice dreamed we would in 50 years.
Hopefully, with the courage and character that Serena displayed internationally, America can renew it's march toward equality for all and begin accepting and protecting a diverse nation of equals.
I Have A Dream
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