Serena Williams tried to deposit her first $1 million check at a drive-thru ATM: ‘If I didn’t win, I wasn’t thinking’

Serena Williams’ financial journey offers a glimpse into her single-minded dedication to tennis. At the peak of her career, Williams earned $94.8 million in prize money, yet in her early years, she often overlooked collecting her winnings.

During an appearance on *Hot Ones*, she recounted trying to deposit her first million-dollar check at a drive-thru ATM, only to be redirected inside because the transaction was too large. Despite the excitement of those around her, Williams remained unfazed, focused instead on perfecting her game.

“I never played for money. I played because I loved the sport,” she explained, adding that she would even forget to collect her winnings from tournaments. Her tax advisor had to remind her about unclaimed checks from places like Zurich and Moscow. For Williams, winning—not wealth—was always her primary motivator.

Williams credits her father for teaching her financial responsibility early on. Starting in her teens, he involved her in major financial decisions, such as negotiating sponsorship deals with brands like Puma and Nike. “I learned early on that your paycheck from tennis should be your smallest earning,” she said, emphasizing the importance of financial literacy. Her experiences underscore the value of equipping young people with money management skills.

Experts agree that teaching children basic financial concepts, such as saving and budgeting, at an early age can prepare them for future financial independence. Williams’ story is a testament to the balance between pursuing one’s passions and developing sound financial habits, a lesson relevant to athletes and professionals alike.