Serena Williams rookie card sells for record price

An alternative-asset trading platform purchased the Williams card on behalf of a private client. 

Hajducky added that a Naomi Osaka 2020 Topps Transcendent 1-of-1 autograph sold for $40,590. 

"I believe it will [get crazier] for Serena," Goldin Auctions executive chairman and founder Ken Goldin said of the future market for Williams merchandise. "We're gonna have new women's tennis product come out, I think that's a 100% lock. Serena -- much like Jordan was included in Upper Deck basketball when they had the license for years after he retired -- will be included in those products long after she's retired.

"As new companies, like Fanatics, start producing cards, their job is to broaden the customer base and go more international: Serena is very international. I could definitely see tremendous future growth for all of her collectables, not just her trading cards."

Williams turned 40 years old last month and has won a total of 23 Grand Slam titles, one behind the all-time record held by Margaret Court. One wonders if her autograph will ultimately be worth even more if she matches or passes Court before calling time on her legendary career.