By Laura Weydandt
December 30 2003

Top player Serena Williams, who worked together with Puma the last six years, has signed a deal with Nike for the next years. With signing one of the biggest deals in sports history, Serena Williams became one of the richest athletes ever. "I am extremely happy to be a part of the Nike family. The company’s innovation, creativity and worldwide marketing and retail expertise will be valuable assets for me. I will be working closely with Nike’s team of experts to design and create my tennis shoe and apparel, and will also be given creative input in its sports and leisure wear lines for the female consumer." Williams said in her own words.

"I can’t think of a better company to be affiliated with, particularly with my strong interest in design and my involvement in the fashion industry. This will be a great
partnership. I want to thank Mr. Phil Knight and all of the people at Nike, who worked so hard to make this agreement a reality. They won’t be sorry."

Williams will wear her new gear at the Australian Open for the first time.

Serena Williams starts her 2004 season later than scheduled. She withdraws from The Hopman Cup in Perth Australia.

Hopman Cup director Paul McNamee said Williams withdrew to prepare for the Australian Open. Williams was scheduled to partner with James Blake in the nations team tournament. McNamee announced Lindsay Davenport was going to replace Serena Williams who played her last match since she won the Wimbledon final in July.