Serena Williams is Sportsperson of the Year. Not everyone agrees

The choice to award Serena Williams with the Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year has prompted both celebration and contention, with some arguing that the prize had a more deserving victor: racehorse American Pharaoh. Williams posted the cover on her Instagram, writing, "This year was spectacular for me. For Sports Illustrated to recognize my hard work, my dedication, and my sheer determination gives me hope to continue on and do better." The award was seen by many as a welcome celebration of both Williams' impressive career, and as an achievement for women and people of colour in the sport. "#Serena won 53 of 56 matches this year, was ranked no. 1 every week. Grand Slam run aside, best year of her career at 34. #SISportsperson," wrote one user. It is the first time an individual woman has been given the title since Mary Decker in 1983. Since its creation in 1954, Williams is the third woman to win it alone, and the only black woman to gain the title.