Even when they’re not on a tennis court, sisters Venus and Serena Williams are serving winners. Swapping out the grass court for a red carpet, the champion duo arrived at the Academy Awards looking every bit the legendary figures they are with Venus sporting custom Elie Saab and Serena knocking it out of the park in pink Gucci.
Venus kept the details simple – silver cuffs to match the silver piping on the plunging front of her gown – while Serena’s floral detail on the accordion-pleat dress was matched with black lace gloves.
Their film, King Richard, about their father Richard Williams and his dedication to turn his daughters into champion tennis players, is nominated for an incredible six awards including the big one of Best Picture. Will Smith, who plays the titular character and father of the Williams sisters, is also up for Best Actor.
Using fashion as a method of statement isn’t a new sport for either Venus or Serena Williams. Throughout their career, the sisters have been outliers within tennis’ rather conservative style restraints. From denim skirts to body suits on court, they have slowly broken down many of tennis’ stereotypes while also challenging the inherent biases contained within the mostly white competition.
One such incident occurred during the 1999 Australian Open when Venus Williams was penalised for her wearing of hair braids on court. As beads fell out during play, the umpire declared them a disturbance despite a ruling that only items larger than a cap to be considered. In the presser afterwards, Venus declared that she shouldn’t be forced to change her hair and she had never had this treatment prior to the Australian match.
Most recently, Venus and Serena were on the receiving end of bizarre commentary from fellow award nominee Jane Campion during her acceptance speech at the Critics Choice Awards.
