Former World Number one Serena Williams defeated her elder sister Venus in the Australian Open 2017 finals and progressed to lift her 23rd Grand Slam title and winner’s check of $2.8 million.

Serena Williams a special gift

In the midst of all the celebrations of creating history by surpassing Steffi Graf’s all-time major record, Serena received a gift as an icing on the cake. The precious gift was a pair of pink Air Jordans from her legendary compatriot Michael Jordan. The runners had number 23 etched on them, representing Serena’s Slam-tally.

Also, the gift was accompanied by a heartfelt letter to Williams. “Winning is hard, it takes years of hard work, mental toughness and a willingness to accept the fact that you hate to lose,” she read aloud. “Congratulations with much respect on winning number 23. It will be a privilege to keep watching your determination on the court. Your friend, Michael Jordan.”

After her 6-4, 6-4 win over Venus, an elated Serena was also seen wearing a different pair of Air Jordans. She was also carrying her Australian Open title in her hand.

While lifting that Slam, Williams was eight-weeks pregnant wither daughter Alexis Olympia, but she did not reveal the news back then. “It’s such a great feeling to have 23. It really feels great. Yeah, I’ve been chasing it for a really long time. It feels like, really long time. When it got on my radar, I knew I had an opportunity to get there, and I’m here. I’m here. It’s a great feeling. No better place to do it than Melbourne,” she said.

Another milestone pending

Earlier the American Serena topped the mark of Chrissie Evert and Martina Navratilova and post her win in Melbourne, she surpassed the Slam count of Steffi Graff.

But after that historic victory, the questions of Williams equalling Margaret Court’s all-time record of 24 Slams were raised. Ever since Serena has featured in four Slam finals, and every time she falls short by sets and her 24th major reverie is yet to be fulfilled.