“Brainwashed to become No. 1″—Serena Williams‘ ex-coach, Rick Macci, played a vital role in putting her raw talent to use. 

Before her sensational performances stormed the WTA, the American coach’s relationship with her and her elder sister Venus Williams was relatively unspoken. Naturally, some moments never reached fans’ inboxes, but Macci finally decided to change that. Not only that, but Macci also revealed why Williams always stood out among other students in her academy.

The Williams sisters first practiced with the American coach in 1991. He took the generational talent under his wing for four years before their father, Richard Williams, stepped in to take full charge of their coaching responsibilities in 1995. However, during that period, Macci spent countless moments training Serena. It wasn’t all work and no play. The United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) Master Professional always found time to plan fun activities for all the players in his Florida academy.

JUST IN: Serena Williams Opens Up About Regaining Her ‘Confidence’ After a Skin-Tightening Treatment

Subsequently, Macci took to X and narrated chucklesome moments from when the 23-time Slam winner loved to play ‘Tag’ with other students. He further elaborated that Williams was his players’ most feared opponent due to her tactical finesse, enabling her to win each time. She was a natural, with a hint of instinctive talents. “Serena loved to play TAG as a kid with all the other students.”

“She in my opinion was the MOST FEARED student playing tag in the History of the academy. Not because of her agility cat-like quickness or rocket speed. It was because she played with a CLOSED FIST,” he said.

For those unaware, Macci’s pivotal role in Williams’ life was also showcased in the movie ‘King Richard,’ depicting her father’s poignant journey in transforming young girls into tennis legends. Macci’s role in the biographical sports drama was led by renowned American actor Jon Bernthal.