Unorthodox Training Tactics: How Richard Williams Molded Venus and Serena into Tennis Legends, as Recalled by Former Coach Rick Macci

Mar 29, 2014; Miami, FL, USA; Richard Williams the father of Serena Wiliams (not pictured), watches from the stands against Li Na (not pictured) during the women’s final of the Sony Open at Crandon Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

The indomitable spirit of tennis legends Serena and Venus Williams is a testament to the resilient upbringing they received from their father, Richard Williams – a man who made a 78-page blueprint for their success when they were merely four and a half years old. The seasoned childhood coach of the Williams sisters, Rick Macci, has been a ringside observer to their journey and sheds light on the unconventional methods Richard Williams utilized, transforming worn-out balls and court hindrances into tools for boosting agility and adaptability.

Serena Williams, with her 23 Grand Slam singles titles, and Venus, with her seven, have carved a legacy that remains unmatched in the tennis world. Their father’s unyielding resolve played a crucial role in preparing them for the rigors of professional tennis.

Richard Williams’ unique approach transcended the boundaries of conventional coaching. He withdrew the sisters from the junior tournament circuit to safeguard them from early burnout and ensure they enjoyed a normal childhood. Macci shared an intriguing anecdote about Richard’s coaching style, “He wanted the hitting coaches to call the ball OUT when it hit the line… He wanted the girls to confront and demand the hitter to proceed to the net for a Compton Conference Call.” This was a savvy tactic employed by Richard, who is fondly referred to by Macci as “The Compton Crusader.”

The term “Compton Crusader” is a nod to Richard’s roots in Compton, California, recognizing his relentless pursuit to ensure his daughters’ success in tennis, while also instilling a strong identity and value system. Richard’s decision to move his family to Compton, a challenging environment, was a strategic move to inculcate a fighter’s mentality in his daughters. He believed that growing up in such tough surroundings would prepare them for the pressures they would face in the predominantly white sport. His memoir encapsulates his vision stating, “My plan was simple: to bring two children out of the ghetto to the forefront of a white-dominated game.”

Rick Macci’s association with the Williams family began in the early 1990s when Richard and Oracene Price relocated from Compton to West Palm Beach, Florida. The move aimed to provide Serena and Venus with the best training opportunities. Macci, the coach behind some of the biggest names in tennis, including Andy Roddick, Maria Sharapova, and Jennifer Capriati, was a perfect fit for this endeavor. For four years, he played a vital role in shaping their careers at his academy.

Macci’s relationship with Richard Williams was a mixed bag, filled with admiration and challenges. Macci has always held Richard in high regard, often expressing his respect for him on social media. He recently tweeted, “What I loved most about Richard Williams the Compton Controller is he was always BRUTALLY HONEST…” Richard’s legendary honesty was matched by his sense of humor.

Macci reminisced about a time when Richard humorously stated, “Venus throws her entire body at the ball. Serena throws her beads at the balls. The wife throws a good meal every night. Every day I just throw a tantrum!” This blend of brutal honesty and humor was a defining trait of Richard’s personality.

Richard’s tenure as the primary coach when Venus and Serena turned professional was full of trials and tribulations, which Macci witnessed firsthand. The remarkable journey of the Williams sisters is a story of discipline, honesty, and family ties which stand as a tribute to Richard’s unwavering commitment to his daughters’ success.