Take-a-Break Credo Keeps Williams Sisters Fresh

The debate over Venus and Serena Williams has apparently shifted after their exciting return to the US Open, the New York Times reports. The sisters, who have played less tennis recently to focus on design and acting, sparked anger among pundits who wanted them focused on the game. But their take-a-break philosophy is keeping Venus and Serena strong as they approach 30—while younger woman players have already retired.

CBS tennis analyst calls the sisters "vital" to women's tennis but opposes their approach. “I dispute the perception that the Williams sisters are only around because of these outside interests,” she says. “They are around in spite of that.” But Williams sister Isha says the breaks keeps them "grounded; it shows that this thing is not going to be your gig for life." (More Venus Williams stories.)