We already knew Serena Williams was a legend, and now kids around the world know it too. The kids’ television network Nickelodeon honored the 23-time Grand Slam singles champion at the 37th annual Kids’ Choice Awards last week with the Legend Award in recognition of her sporting career and influence on popular culture.
While KCA winners are typically chosen in a fan vote by youngsters and other viewers worldwide, honoring their favorite TV shows, movies, athletes and more, Nickelodeon gives this annual honor to “an aspirational, game-changing global superstar whose name is synonymous with greatness,” it said in a statement. Previous honorees have included David Beckham, Michael Phelps and the late Kobe Bryant, and winners are presented with a special, glittering gold version of the awards’ iconic orange blimp statuette, which was formerly an alternate logo of the network.
Williams was presented her award by Kelly Rowland, of Destiny’s Child fame, whom she dubbed a “special, wonderful friend” in her acceptance speech at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, Calif. She thanked her parents, her family, and gave a special shout out to her sister, Venus Williams, “who’s a legend too,” before delivering a slice of wisdom to the next generation watching.
“This is so cool. You guys are the greatest crowd ever. I needed you all of those years at Wimbledon,” she said.
“I look at this crowd, filled with so many budding little legends, and I want all of you to know that no matter where you come from, and whatever your dreams are, you can achieve anything you put your mind to. If I can do it, you can do it.”
