Venus Williams is the older of the two sisters. She was born on June 17, 1980, while Serena Williams was born on September 26, 1981, making Venus about 15 months older. This evergreen profile compares their careers, achievements, and timelines to provide a reliable answer to which sister is older.
Birth Dates and Ages
Venus Williams was born on June 17, 1980, in Saginaw, Michigan. Serena Williams was born on September 26, 1981, in Saginaw before the family moved to Compton, California. Because Venus was born in 1980 and Serena in 1981, Venus is the older sister by approximately one year and three months.
Professional Career Highlights
Both sisters turned professional in the late 1990s and became dominant forces in women’s tennis. Venus turned pro in 1994 and won her first Wimbledon singles title in 2000. Serena turned pro in 1995 and won her first Wimbledon singles title in 2002. Their overlapping careers produced numerous Grand Slam singles, doubles, and mixed doubles titles, shaping a transformative era in the sport.
Head-to-Head and Key Comparisons
On the professional tour, Serena has won more Grand Slam singles titles, while Venus has excelled in doubles and mixed doubles, often partnering with Serena. Their matches against each other in WTA finals are among the most memorable rivalries in tennis history, highlighting both sisterly bond and elite competition.
Career Milestones at a Glance
| Attribute | Venus Williams | Serena Williams | Source Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 17, 1980 | September 26, 1981 | Official Biography |
| Turned Professional | 1994 | 1995 | WTA Records |
| Grand Slam Singles Titles | 7 | 23 | WTA & ITF |
| Olympic Gold Medals | 5 | 4 | ITF & IOC |
Impact and Legacy
Venus and Serena Williams redefined women’s tennis with their power-based game and cultural influence. Venus’ longevity in doubles and consistent singles performances highlight her versatility. Serena’s record-breaking achievements underscore her dominance, yet both sisters share credit for elevating the sport’s global popularity and inspiring future generations.
Relationship and Personal Background
Born to Richard and Oracene Price, the sisters were raised in Compton and trained together early in their careers. Their relationship has balanced intense on-court rivalry with close off-court support. Public narratives often emphasize their unity, even as they competed at the highest levels of tennis.