Serena Williams added another accolade to her impressive collection this weekend, but this time the tennis icon was recognized far from the court.
The retired champion traveled to Oviedo, Spain to accept the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, one of the most prestigious honors given to athletes worldwide. True to form, Williams made the moment unforgettable with a fashion statement worthy of the occasion.
The 23-time Grand Slam champion chose a striking ruby-red gown designed by Indian couturier Gaurav Gupta for the ceremony. The sculptural piece featured a dramatic one-shoulder neckline adorned with swirling fabric details that gave the dress an almost architectural quality. The bold design balanced contemporary edge with timeless elegance, perfectly suited for someone who has become as much a fashion icon as a sports legend.
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A look fit for royalty
Williams worked with her longtime stylist Kesha McLeod to pull together the complete look for the special evening. The floor-length gown was paired with matching pointed-toe heels that elongated her silhouette while maintaining the cohesive red color story. Rather than overwhelming the dramatic dress with accessories, Williams kept her jewelry minimal and thoughtful, wearing only a watch on one wrist and a delicate bracelet on the other.
Her beauty choices complemented the gown beautifully. Williams opted for burgundy nails that added subtle depth to the monochromatic palette, while fuchsia-tinted lips brought a softer element to the bold red ensemble. Hair stylist Angela Meadows created loose Hollywood-style curls that cascaded over Williams’ shoulders, and makeup artist Pauline Briscoe gave her a radiant, glowing complexion that caught the light perfectly. The finishing touch was a pin bearing the foundation’s emblem, presented to her along with the award itself.
Joining elite company
The Princess of Asturias Award for Sports places Williams among an impressive roster of athletic excellence. Previous American recipients include alpine skiing champion Lindsey Vonn, while Spanish badminton olympian Carolina Marín has also been honored in past years. The award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to their sport and inspired others through their achievements.
Williams expressed her gratitude for the recognition through social media following the ceremony. She acknowledged the remarkable individuals who had received the award before her and described being part of that legacy as truly humbling. The tennis star thanked everyone who had supported her throughout her journey, both during her competitive years and in her life after retirement.
A foundation of excellence
The Princess of Asturias Awards were established in 1980 to celebrate individuals, organizations and entities that have made extraordinary contributions across multiple fields. Beyond sports, the foundation presents awards in categories including literature, communication, arts, scientific research and public affairs. The awards have become one of Spain’s most respected honors, often compared to other prestigious international recognitions.
Recipients are selected based on their exceptional work and the positive impact they have made in their respective fields. For athletes, the award considers not only competitive achievements but also their influence on the sport itself and their ability to inspire future generations. Williams certainly fits that description, having dominated women’s tennis for more than two decades while breaking barriers and challenging expectations.
Fashion meets athletic excellence
Williams has long been celebrated for her bold fashion choices, both on and off the tennis court. Throughout her playing career, she made headlines with innovative outfits at major tournaments, from catsuits to tutus that sparked conversations about self-expression in sports. Since stepping away from competitive tennis, she has continued to make waves in the fashion world, attending high-profile events and consistently delivering memorable red carpet moments.
Her choice to wear Gaurav Gupta for this ceremony highlights her appreciation for international designers and her willingness to take fashion risks. The Indian couturier is known for sculptural designs that blur the line between fashion and art, making his work a natural fit for someone who has always pushed boundaries. The dramatic silhouette and rich color commanded attention while allowing Williams’ natural charisma to shine through.
Life after tennis
Since officially retiring from professional tennis, Williams has embraced new chapters in her life. She continues to be involved in business ventures, including her investment firm Serena Ventures, while spending more time with her family. Her husband Alexis Ohanian and their daughter Olympia frequently appear in her social media posts, showing a different side of the athlete who once intimidated opponents across the net.
The Princess of Asturias Award serves as a reminder that Williams’ impact extends far beyond match wins and championship trophies. Her influence on sports, fashion and culture will continue long after her final serve.
