KAOHSIUNG, Taiwan – Venus Williams has no intention of winding down any time soon. That much was made abundantly clear at the tail end of 2015, when the seven-time major winner rolled back the years to lift titles in Wuhan and Zhuhai, climbing back into the Top 10 in the process.

Even a stuttering start to the new campaign has failed to dampen the evergreen American’s enthusiasm. Williams is back in Asia this week for the inaugural Taiwan Open, in Kaohsiung, where she is top seed.

As headline act, Williams is afforded the luxury of a Wednesday start and the opportunity to sit down with wtatennis.com to talk sisterly inspiration, Taiwanese tennis and turning it up to EleVen.

On the inspiration behind her enduring success…
“Well I have this inspiration called Serena Williams! So that helps a lot. But also I love the game and it’s been wonderful to play this game. And when you love it it’s easy to give everything, every time.”

On Taiwan…
“I’ve already hit for a couple of hours on the court so I haven’t had the chance to see a lot. I’d love to see the mountains and the city. But from the plane it looked amazing!”

On the Amazing Chan Clan…
“First of all they’re really wonderful people. They welcomed me here and told me if I needed anything to let them know – so I think I’ll take them up on that. This year or last year I was watching them at the WTA Finals and it was unbelievable doubles – so exciting to watch it. Never played against them at the same time – I’ve played against them when they weren’t playing together and that was never easy. I guess now they’re going to be representing the country in the Olympics and that’s so awesome for tennis and so exciting for Taiwan.”

On her Olympic legacy…
“Oh the Olympics are very special. For me, the most important moments in my career were at the Olympics, especially being able to play with my sister. I’m hoping to have the honor to play again this year. Of course if you win it’s unbelievable but to participate is everything as well. I’m really looking forward to it – if I make it!”

On going all the way up to EleVen…
“I design a collection called EleVen by Venus and that stands for being better than a 10 and every time bringing your best. I just enjoy it. I love making active wear and I think one day we need to come to Taiwan – sooner rather than later.”