Parents of tennis champions Venus and Serena Williams finalize divorce

Jet, Nov 18, 2002

Tennis champions Venus and Serena Williams' parents recently finalized their "no fault" divorce in the Palm Beach Circuit Court in Florida.

Oracene and Richard Williams, seen many times supporting their daughters in the stands during tennis tournaments, married in 1980 and have been extremely influential in the careers of their daughters as advisors and coaches.

Both say the divorce will not affect their respective advisory roles with their daughters.

"Richard and I have been separated for a while now, and I was very honest with our children that a reconciliation would not happen," said Oracene, who will begin using her maiden name, Oracene Price.

"They've accepted our divorce and love us, as we both love them. Richard and I will continue to work together for the good of our girls, and I truly wish him well."