NEW YORK — Serena Williams developed in the shadow of big sister Venus, who towered over her as a youngster when they grew up together as kids being taught the game by father Richard on the cracked public courts of Compton.
Serena does not remember winning against Venus in those days in the poverty-hit Los Angeles neighborhood, but she might owe a debt to formative years that planted the seed of a fierce competitive spirit that has helped her achieve greatness.
"She always won. Like always," Serena said when asked about early duels with her older sister.