Go Serena!

My girl, Serena Williams, had me up until almost midnight last night, even though I had to get up at 5:30. She won the U.S. Open and took the number one ranking.



I have been a fan of the Williams sisters since the days of the beads. I remember when Venus first hit the scene. It was a James Brown moment. Say it loud! They didn't know what to do with her. Black folks aren't suppose to play tennis.



As if Venus taking the tennis world by storm wasn't enough, Serena was added to the mix. It was so wonderful watching these two powerful, poised, and talented young ladies getting the job done. The odds were against them from the start. They didn't get the warmest of receptions from tennis fans or players, but through it all they kept their heads up and busted down barriers.



Althea Gibson and Arthur Ashe laid the foundation and the Williams sisters made the road a little smoother. They changed the way women's tennis was played. Power! I loved watching it all unfold. People who doubted and disrespected them had no choice but to respect these young women. They never complained, just played tennis and collected titles. That's how it's done.



The Williams sisters have inspired many young people. They've inspired me as well. They've shown me that no matter how people doubt you or talk about you, you can achieve your goals. They put the T in tenacity and have made their mark on the world of tennis, just as I would like to do in the writing world. I thank them for doing us proud. Every time I see them I well up with pride.

They've grown into wonderful young women and I wish them continued success.