Alycia Parks is one of the many players who admire Serena Williams, the WTA GOAT. Despite a challenging start to her 2024 season, Parks has shown her potential by reaching the final rounds of several tournaments, including the Pen in Arte Angers Loire, ITF/Tennis Europe W75, Dow Tennis Classic, Polish Open, and Veneto Open. She attributes her relentless drive to win to her idol, Serena. Her admiration for Williams is evident in her actions and words.

Parks is yet to win another title since 2023 in Lyon, where she secured a stunning 7-6 (7), 7-5 upset win over WTA Finals champion Caroline Garcia. What’s been her motivation to keep going despite the drought of wins this season? During an interview with Claytenis in November, Parks disclosed that it was Serena who pushed her to do her best. Often getting on a call with the GOAT, Parks recalled, “Serena is a great inspiration to me; she helps me a lot, she always has.”

“I try to talk to her whenever I can, whenever I have a question, I don’t hesitate to turn to her,” she added. The pair has created a special bond over the last couple of months. They were last seen together at the 2024 US Open after Parks lost her mixed doubles match against Jackson Withrow in the Round of 16.

Parks noted that Williams always gives her “good advice” Being a former tennis player who knows well about the pressures that come with the ups and downs of the sport, Serena bestows her wisdom to the young athlete. Alycia said, “The best advice she gave me was to go back to what I was doing when I was winning, as well as to reconnect with the person who knows me best: my father.”

After showing her hunger for winning, by making it to the finals of nearly five tournaments this year, Parks will be looking to clinch more titles next season. Especially when her idol is cheering her on.

Serena’s impact on Alycia through the season

Despite her ups and downs last season, Parks received a boost of encouragement from none other than her idol, Serena Williams. The seven-time Grand Slam champion shared a video on her Instagram stories, cheering on Parks as she played, stating, “watching @alyciaparks SHINE.”

The bond between Parks and Williams runs deep. Parks fondly recalls a call she received from Serena when she was younger. Even her father, Michael Parks, emphasized how crucial that moment was for them, saying, “Serena’s call had a significant impact on their lives. They knew they could beat anyone or accomplish anything – she told her to play hard and stay with her goals.”

This support has not only inspired Parks on the court but also influenced her off it. She has been spotted wearing a “Queen” necklace from Williams’ jewelry line during matches. This gesture symbolizes the admiration and gratitude Parks feels toward the tennis legend.

As Parks continues to navigate her career, she remains hopeful and grateful for every opportunity. She expressed this sentiment in interviews, stating that “tennis is a luxury” for her. With each match and victory, Parks aims to honor the legacy of Serena Williams while carving out her own path in the sport.