Serena Williams is Sports Illustrated's 2015 Sportsperson of the Year

Tennis player Serena Williams was named Sports Person of the year 2015 by Sports Illustrated on December 14, 2015.

As an article by The Courier-Journal explains, Williams took home the award for what was ultimately called 'Sportsperson of the Year 2015'.

Serena has accomplished so much from slams to gold medals, and now she has yet another well-deserved accomplishment to take with her when she leaves the game.

"Everyone always asked, 'What was your greatest moment in tennis?' and I always it hasn't happened".

Sports Illustrated managing editor Christian Stone explained the decision to pick Williams on SI.com. She held all four Grand Slam titles at once: 2014 U.S. Open, 2015 Australian Open, 2015 French Open, and 2015 Wimbledon.

Likewise, Sports Illustrated has used Serena as a jumping off point to rename what was the "Sportsman of the Year", "Sportsperson of the Year".

The publication last honored a lone woman in 1983 when they chose runner Mary Decker. Serena Williams or American Pharoah?

There were 12 contenders this year for the honor, which recognizes a person who embodies the spirit of sportsmanship and achievement.

The choice to give Serena the Sports Illustrated magazine Sportsperson of the Year award has prompted both celebration and contention, with some arguing that the prize had a more deserving victor: American Pharaoh.

That year she was greeted with boos and her family says she even endured racial slurs. "This is not just an accomplishment for me, but for my whole team, I am beyond honoured". She had an unbelievable year. I am beyond honored.

Following the huge announcement on Monday morning, people suggested that the coveted spot should have gone to Triple Crown victor, American Pharoah.

Sports Illustrated said on their website that American Pharoah won 47 percent of the vote when the poll closed on Saturday night.