Serena Williams defeated her big sister Venus in the Australian Open to win her 23rd Grand Slam and broke the record set by Steffi Graf’s 22-Grand Slams (1988) in the Open era. The win also catapults Serena back at No. 1 in the world ranking after losing to Germany’s  Angelique Kerber.

“My first Grand Slam started and getting to 23 here, but playing Venus, it’s stuff that legends are made of. I couldn’t have written a better story,” Serena said.”There’s no way I would be at 23 without her. There’s no way I’d be at one without her. She’s my inspiration.”

She explained that her sister is always her toughest opponent and thanked Venus for always challenging making her a better player on the court.  The motivation her sibling offers is unprecedented she said during a news conference.

“Every time she won her match, I felt obligated to win – I’ve got to win, too. The motivation she gives me, it’s really second to nothing,” the 33-year-old explained. “There’s no way I would be at 23 without her–there’s no way I would be at one without her.”

Venus, 36,  who was the oldest player to compete in a Grand Slam final, returned the love for her sister. “Serena Williams. That’s my little sister, guys. Your win has always been my win,” Venus beamed.

The pair has been a powerhouse since coming on the scene during the 1990s. The sisters from California have a combined wins of 13 Grand Slam doubles titles.

“She’s the only reason I’m standing here today. She’s the only reason the Williams sisters exist. Thank you for inspiring me. Every time you won this week, I felt like I got a win too,” Serena said.

Serena, who won her first Australian title almost two decades ago, entered the match as the strong favorite.

“I really enjoy seeing the name ‘Williams’ on the trophy. This is a beautiful thing,” Serena said.