It was a star-studded night out in Los Angeles as the best in film came together to celebrate standout performances on and off the camera. Although the hair, makeup and fashion caught our eyes it was what was said that captivated people’s hearts around the world.
Renee Zellweger won Best Actress in a Leading Role for her performance as Judy Garland in the film Judy. She spoke about heroes and what it meant for her to play Garland, and among the names she called out in her acceptance speech was tennis’ very own Serena and Venus Williams.
“When we look to our heroes, we agree, and that matters. Neil Armstrong, Sally Ride, Dolores Huerta, Venus and Serena and Selena, Bob Dylan, Scorsese, Fred Rogers, Harriet Tubman,” Zellweger said. “We agree on our teachers, and we agree on our courageous men and women in uniform who serve. We agree on our first responders and firefighters. When we celebrate our heroes, we’re reminded of who we are as one people united.”
Holding 30 Grand Slam singles titles between the two, and 14 together, Serena and Venus have had an immense impact on the sport. Along their journeys, they have been role models for women.
The sisters have been a symbol of hope and have instilled belief in many hoping to walk in their footsteps.
“The best among us, who inspire us to find the best in ourselves, when they unite us, when we look to our heroes, we agree, you know?” Zellweger said. “And that matters.”
Tennis was both seen and heard on Sunday night, as Maria Sharapova walked the red carpet once again for the Vanity Fair party.
Her boyfriend Alexander Gilkes had an even more visible role.
The 2020 Oscar winner beat out, Cynthia Erivo (Harriet), Scarlett Johansson (Marriage Story), Saoirse Ronan (Little Women) and Charlize Theron (Bombshell).
The Best Actress winner took a six-year break from acting due to fatigue and was last recognized 16 years ago for her role in Cold Mountain.
