Before she became one of the most talked-about stars in college basketball and a WNBA sensation, Caitlin Clark once dreamed of picking up a tennis racquet professionally. The Indiana Fever rookie recently opened up about her childhood admiration for tennis legend Serena Williams—and how that admiration briefly steered her toward the court instead of the court.
A Childhood Dream Sparked by Serena Williams
In a candid conversation with ESPN’s Laura Rutledge, Clark shared how Serena Williams significantly influenced her growing up. Despite idolizing WNBA icons, it was the 23-time Grand Slam champion who earned the title of her favorite athlete.
“I thought [her career] was incredible,” Clark said. “But my tennis career was short-lived. I got kicked out of tennis class when I was 10, so that didn't last long. ... But I love Serena Williams.”
Clark confessed to taking tennis lessons as a child inspired by Williams' epic dominance. She, however, humorously put an end to her tennis; she complained to her coach that the class was too easy, and the coach asked her to leave the class.
No US Open Cameo for Clark Just Yet
Serena Williams has just given Clark her public seal of approval for handling the pressures of the limelight since her rise in the WNBA, with the dynamic of the two athletes being highlighted more than ever. That being said, fans should not expect Clark to join Jimmy Butler and others at the US Open but to firmly leave behind her tennis days.
Caitlin Clark Jersey Surges Past NBA Legends
While Clark might not be slamming serves, she is certainly gaining a lot of popularity on a different court. Clark, during Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Playoffs held between the Indiana Pacers and Milwaukee Bucks, was seen sitting courtside, next to one of Fever head coach Stephanie White's kids, proudly sporting her jersey.
The scene was yet another reflection of the phenomenon of Caitlin Clark, now sweeping across the nation. Sports Illustrated reported that her jersey sales from September to November in 2022 ranked among the top for all major basketball players.