Serena Named SI’s Sportsperson of the Year
Serena Williams was named Sports Illustrated’s Sportsperson of the Year on Monday, becoming the first woman to be honored with the magazine’s award in more than three decades.
The top-ranked player in the world put together a historic 2015 season, coming within two matches of winning the Calendar Grand Slam and compiling a record of 53-3. She stayed atop the world rankings every day throughout 2015, winning three Grand Slam titles.
“She was the most deserving person for the award. She had an amazing year,” said Paul Fichtenbaum, editor of the Sports Illustrated Group. “The way she won her events; the fact that she’s done this for so many years at such a high level. She was a terrific candidate in a year of terrific candidates.”
Track and Field star Mary Decker was the last female athlete to win the award outright, doing so in 1983.
“This year was spectacular for me. For Sports Illustrated to recognize my hard work, my dedication and my sheer domination gives me hope to continue and do better,” Serena said on her Facebook page. “As I always say, it takes a village; it’s not just one person. This is not just an accomplishment for me, but for my whole team. I am beyond honored.”
The announcement marks Sports Illustrated’s switch to naming the award “Sportsperson of the Year” as opposed to “Sportsman” or “Sportswoman” of the Year.
