“Really Open and Interested in Talking to Me”: Surfing Legend Kelly Slater Bowed Down to the Humility of Venus and Serena Williams at Oscars 2022

Surfer extraordinaire Kelly Slater has ruled the sport for decades. Slater is the only surfer who has won the World Surfing League 11 times. Slater also holds the record for the youngest and oldest world champion. Even at 47, Kelly beat surfers half his age to claim his 11th world championship. Kelly has surfed professionally for three decades and shows no signs of slowing down.

The 50-year-old attended the 2022 Oscars. Slater joined fellow athletes Tony Hawk and Shaun White as presenters. It was the 60th anniversary of the James Bond franchise, and they presented a tribute. During an interview with Tracks magazine in June, Kelly revealed how humbled he felt after interacting with tennis icons, Serena and Venus Williams.

Kelly Slater bowed down to the humility of the Williams sisters

During the interview, Tracks asked Kelly to describe his experience at the 2022 Oscars. They also asked how he felt, “Mixing with big names and the likes of Serena and Venus Williams.” The surfing legend said, “It was actually cool. I spent a good amount of time with Serena and Venus, amongst many other people.” He also said it was a big night for the tennis stars.

Kelly said he congratulated the sisters for their movie. “It was really cool because they were like really open and interested in talking to me,” said Slater. “You’ve been doing so good,” Venus and Serena complimented Kelly. However, their compliment surprised Kelly, who didn’t think the tennis icons would know much about his surfing exploits.

“We are in such different worlds, and the sport that I’m in is not so mainstream, and they kind of have an idea what is happening with me,” said the legendary surfer.

READ MORE: Why 11x Champ Kelly Slater Has Never Smoked a Joint in His Life

The Williams sisters attended the 2022 Oscars because of the movie King Richard. “King Richard” had six Academy Award nominations, including the best picture. Will Smith, who played Richard Williams in the movie, walked away with the best actor honors. The film depicted Richard Williams and his daughters, Venus and Serena’s struggles before becoming global tennis icons.  

Finding success at 50

Most athletes gradually decline in performance as they age. After a long run of dominance, Kelly Slater also found it hard to find success. Many doubted the legend as he approached 50. Kelly also dealt with multiple injuries and setbacks, including a lack of motivation to compete. However, the 50-year-old silenced his doubters in 2022.

Slater won the Billabong Pro Pipeline earlier this year and defied all expectations. It was his 56th Championship Tour event win.

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Do you believe Kelly Slater can win more titles?