Richard Williams, the father of tennis superstars Serena and Venus Williams, is undeniably one of the most influential figures in the world of sports. His unwavering dedication to his daughters’ careers and his unique approach to coaching set the foundation for their immense success on the tennis courts. As of 2025, Richard Williams is still alive, though his life has significantly changed due to health complications in recent years.

Born in 1942, Richard Williams has experienced both triumph and hardship throughout his life. His legacy as a father and coach gained widespread attention through the release of the 2021 biographical film King Richard, which focused on his relentless belief in his daughters’ potential, despite the odds being stacked against them.

The film, in which Will Smith portrayed Richard, showed how he masterminded the careers of Venus and Serena without any formal coaching experience. His approach to raising his daughters was unconventional, but it paid off in a way that reshaped the tennis world.

While Serena and Venus were still young, Richard started creating a detailed plan for their success, believing that they would both become world-class tennis players. His confidence in their abilities and his determination to train them in Compton, California, was a bold and groundbreaking decision.

Despite lacking formal coaching credentials, Richard’s belief in hard work, discipline, and resilience drove his daughters to greatness, ultimately leading them to become two of the most dominant players in the history of tennis.

However, in recent years, Richard’s health has become a significant concern. In 2016, he suffered a series of strokes that severely affected his speech and mobility. These health challenges have kept him away from the public eye, and he has remained relatively private in the years since.

Nonetheless, he has made occasional appearances at events related to his daughters, still receiving the admiration of tennis fans around the world. It’s believed that Richard currently resides in Florida, leading a quieter life.

Despite the impact of his health issues, Richard Williams remains a figure of incredible influence and inspiration. His story is a testament to resilience and dedication, showing that with unwavering belief in one’s family, anything is possible.

His legacy is not only carried on through his daughters’ remarkable achievements but also through the values he instilled in them—values of perseverance, determination, and a fierce commitment to excellence.

Over the years, rumors have surfaced claiming that Richard Williams has passed away, but these have been proven to be false. Richard is still alive, though his life is now marked by a more private and reserved existence.

While his public appearances have become less frequent, the impact he had on the tennis world and his daughters’ careers will never fade. Richard’s story continues to inspire countless people worldwide, reminding them that sometimes, the greatest victories in life come from the love and belief of those who support you.

Through his role in shaping the careers of Serena and Venus Williams, Richard Williams will always be remembered as a key figure in their journey, a father whose vision, determination, and love helped two girls from Compton rise to the pinnacle of the tennis world.

His legacy remains a beacon of hope for anyone who dares to dream, proving that with the right amount of faith and perseverance, anything is possible.