WIMBLEDON 2000, 2001, 2005, 2007, 2008 | US OPEN 2000, 2001
Since her breakthrough season in 1997, Venus Williams has been one of the most dominant forces on the women's tour. A former world number one, Venus is a five-time Wimbledon winner, two-time US Open champ, and has been to the finals of the other Grand Slam tournaments. She also won a gold medal for her country in the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, and another playing doubles with her sister Serena in Beijing this past year. Boasting a rocket serve and a vicious two-handed backhand, Venus is a crowd favorite and serious contender.
While one of the most feared players on the court, Venus is also one of the most respected off it. She is regarded as a player representative for the WTA, and has shown outspoken leadership on a range of issues. Additionally, Venus has an entrepreneurial spirit, and launched her own fashion line, EleVen, in 2007.