Seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams has spoken about how fighting for gender equality was an 'easy decision'.

The former world No. 1 began her campaign 15 years ago and has since made huge differences in the sport.

At the 2005 French Open, she spoke with officials on behalf of female players about earning the same prize money as men. 

Williams' efforts were noticed a year later when the French Open announced they would pay the male and female winners equally, with Wimbledon following suit a year later.

The 39-year-old said: "For me it was simple and clear; it was about standing up for what I believed was right.

"Tennis has given me so much opportunity in life, including a platform, so when the opportunity came to fight for women across the sport it was an easy decision.

"I spoke up for both myself and people everywhere who were facing, or will face, the same kind of injustice in their lives.

"I’m glad it was able to create a ripple effect and set a precedent. 

"So much positive change has happened since then, and so much positive change is still needed, but I’m happy I was able to do my part and will continue to do so until it doesn’t need to be a conversation anymore."

The US Open had already made their prize money equal back in 1973, while the Australian Open did so in 2001.