A new Epix documentary about Serena Williams that aired Wednesday night captured the life and career of the world-renowned tennis athlete.
Titled Serena, the last scene of the documentary showcases the celebration of her 2015 Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year award, in which Williams delivers a powerful speech acknowledging the criticism she’s faced on the court and in the press.
“I’ve had people look down on me, put me down because I didn’t look like them – I look stronger,” said the athlete. “I’ve had people look past me because of the color of my skin. I’ve had people overlook me because I was a woman.”
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“You may write me down in history, With your bitter, twisted lies, You may trod me in the very dirt, But still, like dust, I’ll rise,” Williams continued, quoting Maya Angelou to affirm her determination to win.