The Williams sisters will serve as executive directors and collaborate alongside Will and Jada Pinkett Smith’s Westbrook Studios to produce “COPA 71.” Will Smith previously starred in the 2021 film “King Richard” portraying the tennis legends’ father.
The film touches on the 1971 Women’s World Cup held in Mexico in front of an estimated 100,000 attendees to watch six teams compete. Before FIFA organized the first official World Cup in 1991 in China, the Federazione Internazionale Europea Football Femminile (FIEFF) hosted their own unofficial tournament in 1970 in Italy. Interest garnered for another World Cup in 1971, this time sponsored by Italian alcoholic company Martini & Rossi. Denmark won both World Cups, securing a victory over the host cities.
“’Copa 71’ tells the story of one of the most inspirational and significant moments in women’s sports history,” said Serena Williams in an interview with Variety. “It’s an honor to partner with my sisters and Westbrook Studios to help bring this magical story to light, which has been buried for far too long.”
“When I heard about the 1971 Women’s World Cup, I couldn’t believe this incredible story was erased from our history books,” Venus Williams added. “I’m excited to team with my sisters and Westbrook Studios to help elevate and empower fellow female athletes and their accomplishments, and to make sure these women have their voices heard through this inspiring documentary.”
This is not the first time Serena Williams is stepping into the soccer world. She and her daughter Alexis Ohanian, Jr. are co-owners of Angel City FC. She also made headlines in April 2022 when she put in a bid to purchase Chelsea FC.
