Serena Williams Rookie Card Sells For $117k

Serena Williams has won 23 Grand Slam singles titles, the most of any player in the Open Era and the second-most all-time behind Margaret Court. Serena has just added another incredible accomplishment to her resume. One of her rookie cards recently sold for $117,500.

It was the most expensive women’s sports card ever created. According to TMZ Sports, a 1999 Sports Illustrated For Kids card sold for $117,500 at the PWCC January Premier Auction, breaking the previous record for a women’s sports card (also set by Williams) by nearly $75,000.

The card is incredible because it came from a perforated set in Sports Illustrated For Kids magazine over two decades ago; only a few survived, but this one was given a perfect 10 rating. The rare piece, which depicts a young Serena in the middle of a forehand shot, has perfect corners and a perfect center.

On the back, there’s a description of her game that begins, “Serena is the hottest rising star in women’s tennis.” Meanwhile, another Serena card sold for a lot of money at the PWCC auction this month, with a 2003 Netpro Elite Glossy Tennis Serena Williams Rookie card fetching $96,000.

PWCC executive Jesse Craig told TMZ that the massive monetary value of the cards “really solidify [Serena] as one of the Greatest of All Time in tennis be it men’s or women’s.”

“This is also a huge milestone for women’s sports cards in general as it breaks the six-figure sales barrier for the first time.”

“collectors consider her as one of the greatest athletes of all time regardless of the sport.”

Williams has dominated her entire career, winning more major titles in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles than any other active player. So acquiring a piece of history from her appears to be a worthwhile investment. Keep an eye on Thirsty for the most recent updates.

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