As one of the best athletes of all time,  — Serena Williams knows firsthand about the criticism that comes with being the best. Opinions (because everyone seems to have one) on everything about her including her romantic life, her race, her womanhood, and even her femininity are often topics of ill-advised think pieces and tabloid fodder.  Luckily, none of the above are contributing factors to her athleticism and her ultimate success.  

The tennis superstar covers FADER magazine’s “America” issue and it's an apt comparison. While she’s consistently dominated as a top US player — despite a heartbreaking loss at this year's US Open — this cover is symbolic not just of progression in the sport she clearly dominates, but a note and a reminder of how greatness can manifest and exceed every expectation...and opinion.  See a few of our favorite excerpts below and read the interview in its entirety at FADER.

Do you feel like your story is universal, or was this path unique to you and who you are?

How did you deal with people commenting about your body when you were younger, and how do you deal with it now?

Do you have any advice for those women who may want to speak up about their experience but don’t have the same power and influence as you?

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