Serena Williams’ dad said five-words and I was instantly terrified before practising with her at 16

Former tennis pro Conor Niland shared an unforgettable memory from his youth when he had the rare opportunity to practice with Serena and Venus Williams. At 16, Niland was invited to the famed Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy with his friend Steven Nugent, supported by an anonymous donor.

The awe of being at the academy grew when the Williams sisters returned from Wimbledon and extended an invitation for a practice session. Serena, already ranked in the top 25, and Venus, ranked fifth, commanded the courts with a reputation that left young players like Niland both thrilled and intimidated.

The sessions, tailored entirely around the sisters, gave Niland a glimpse of their intense focus and drive to succeed, even as teenagers.

During one session, Richard Williams, the sisters’ formidable coach, approached Niland with a simple yet powerful statement: “It’s your turn today, boy.” Those words instilled a mix of excitement and fear in him, knowing this was a rare chance to prove himself.

Niland’s experience with the Williams sisters was transformative, and he reflects on it with nostalgia and perhaps a hint of regret. Though he was invited to return to the academy full-time, he chose to resume his life and studies back in England, leaving him to wonder what might have been.