By Sean Gregory
Serena Williams collapsed onto the grass at Wimbledon as if exhausted after winning her seventh title there and her 22nd Grand Slam singles crown on July 9; she’s now tied with Steffi Graf for the most major victories in the Open era. But don’t be fooled: Serena’s not tiring out. Turns out that a decade ago, when critics chirped that Williams acted indifferent toward tennis, she was just resting up for a remarkable run in her 30s, when many players take up golf. Heck, she returned to the court a few hours after the final to win the Wimbledon doubles with sister Venus. Next up: September’s U.S. Open, with the chance to pass Graf’s mark.
–SEAN GREGORY
More Must-Reads From TIME
- Jane Fonda Champions Climate Action for Every Generation
- Biden’s Campaign Is In Trouble. Will the Turnaround Plan Work?
- Why We're Spending So Much Money Now
- The Financial Influencers Women Actually Want to Listen To
- Breaker Sunny Choi Is Heading to Paris
- Why TV Can’t Stop Making Silly Shows About Lady Journalists
- The Case for Wearing Shoes in the House
- Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time
Write to Sean Gregory at sean.gregory@time.com