When Venus Ebony Starr Williams made her debut as a frail 14-year-old in 1994, the critics came out hard at coach and father Richard Williams. For the first two-and-a-half years or so, it appeared the critics were right in slamming father Williams for pushing his daughter into the mad pro world early.

Despite the enormous talent, Venus didn’t make much headway. It all changed that August day in 1997. Venus, 17 then, made a dramatic entry into the final of the US Open, going down to Martina Hingis in the final. But that effort changed the equation of women's tennis, for nearly a decade after that.

Venus, the pioneer of power-hitting in women's tennis, along with sister Serena, began to dominate the Tour. Her 36 titles, including six Grand Slams — four of them at Wimbledon — bear testimony. Though injuries have slowed the champion down in recent years, Venus can’t be overlooked on the big stage.

Venus and Serena are the two biggest names to have entered the $600,000 Bangalore Open which gets under way here on Monday. A day after she was knocked out of the Memphis tournament opener, Venus discussed various topics in an interview with Deccan Herald via e-mail. Excerpts:

Many talents, who have burst onto the scene as teenagers, have faded away just as quickly, what's the secret of your longevity?
My parents always taught Serena and I to plan for our long-term futures and have interests that go beyond only playing tennis. I went to a normal high school; I took college classes in Fashion - and graduated last December - and participated in other activities away from tennis. Looking back, these activities helped me keep my mind fresh and maintain a strong level of excitement about competing and improving on the tennis court.

You have varied interests — designing, reading, writing poetry — how do you find time for tennis?
When you manage your time efficiently you would be surprised what you can accomplish. Importantly, many activities help keep you to relax and escape. Activities like drawing, reading, writing and music actually help me unwind from training and competition.

Power-hitting in women's tennis began with Venus, how does it feel now to be out-hit by a couple of young hopefuls?
Serena and I have played an important role in the evolution of women's tennis and it is interesting to see up-and-coming players using our style of play as a way to evaluate their improvement.

Your record at Wimbledon is amazing, what is the secret of your success there? Is grass your favourite surface?
Playing at Wimbledon is something that I always dreamed about as a kid and I think my game is well suited to the surface. I've been working on coming in (towards net) more over the years which has helped even more. I have fantastic memories at all four Grand Slams and Wimbledon is one that definitely holds a special place in my heart.

You've made two successful comebacks from injury. Do you think at 27 you can reclaim the No 1 spot?
My goal is always to be the best and I work too hard and have too much belief to expect anything less.

What is missing in Venus of 2008 to Venus of 2000-01? How long do you see yourself playing the sport?
I have said often that I plan on playing in the 2012 Olympics.

Who was your toughest opponent and why?
Serena Williams knows my game better than anyone — we have practised together since we started playing — and I believe she has more weapons than anyone on the Tour.

Your best moment ever?
Winning the first Grand Slam is a very special experience because it is something that you have worked towards and dreamt about from the beginning.

Outside of the Slams, you and Serena hardly play the same tournaments, what prompted you to play alongside your sister at the Bangalore Open?
The Bangalore Open promoters were very wise in taking advantage of a rare opportunity to have their event upgraded to a level that allows the top-ranked players to participate. Visiting India generally is something that Serena and I have wanted to do and this is an opportunity that we both decided to share together.

What do you think of Sania Mirza? Does she have it in her to be a player to reckon with in the future?
I played Sania recently in Australia and it is clear that she is talented.

Have you thought of life after tennis?

I have started a clothing line, EleVen, which is part of my long-term plans, and I own an interior design business, V Starr Interiors. I still have quite a few goals that I am looking forward to achieving during my playing career.
I hope I will be remembered as a great champion who had strong values and who used her experiences in the sport of tennis to go on to other great things in life.

What prompted you to accept the Bangalore Open invite and what are your off-court plans in Bangalore?
When it was elevated to the Tier II level there was an opportunity for me to play which I accepted. I have been doing some research and not 100 percent certain what I will be able to see while I'm in Bangalore. There are many options and not much time and having said that, I'm really excited about making my first trip to India which has always fascinated me. I'm sure Serena and I will make some plans together. As of now, it seems our father would also be joining us at Bangalore!