I'm not a huge fan of tennis, but I do love tennis players. It's weird, but true. I am especially fond of the Williams sisters. Spike Lee famously said that they have blackitude. I don't know. I just admire their talent and their muscles. I like those big girls on the court.
I am also fascinated with their father, who with a combination of grit, talent, and insanity, molded those unlikely tennis stars. Sunday's Times magazine article features the Williams sisters and discusses their upbringing. The dad had them on the tennis court every morning at 6am.
Isha, the middle daughter — sharply funny and practical, fiercely loyal to the family — told me: “Life was get up, 6 o’clock in the morning, go to the tennis court, before school. After school, go to tennis. But it was consistency. I hate to put it [like this], but it’s like training an animal. You can’t just be sometimey with it.” She still can’t sleep past 6.
The whole family became self-taught tennis experts. They home schooled the girls, so they could devote their lives to tennis.
Clearly these girls had unique talents – the author repeated pointed out their natural strength and timing – but they would not have made it to Wimbleton without a 24/7 devotion to tennis throughout their childhoods.
My kids are upstairs watching Adventure Time, and it's nearly 11am. Maybe I should take them to the track to run laps.
Apt. 11d 
“I just admire their talent and their muscles.”
Anybody want to place bets on the likelihood that Serena Williams has some pharmaceutical help with the muscles?
LikeLike
I love the Williams sisters, too. When I think of raising strong, independent smart girls, they’re the first women that come to my mind.
LikeLike
I just booked my trip to see the Australian Open in 2013. I cannot wait. I’ve grown up watching the Williams sisters and it is great to hear that their dedication in the younger years is what they credit for their success. I really enjoy how so many stars have spoken of their parents and families instead of taking all of the glory and fame themselves. After all, without coaching and love, many athletes wouldn’t be where they are today. Including many of the Olympians that were highlighted on TV this past month.
LikeLike