American tennis star, Venus Williams has expressed her shock and sadness at the passing of Virgil Abloh, Off-White Chief Executive Officer.
Venus Williams who posed a series of photos on her official Instagram handle to pay her tribute to Louis Vuitton designer, said she was devasted by the sad news, saying Virgil Abloh inspired her to be better in everything she is doing, while also praising his collections and how they have connected and inspired her.
Most of the photos she posted were that of her sister, Serena Williams, and clearly he designed those outfits.
She said:
“I’m devastated by the passing of @virgilabloh …. I love him so much. I always watched everything he did so closely and it inspired me to be better in everything I do. His collections literally brought me to tears because they were so connected so beautiful and so inspiring. I never got a chance to meet him and I wanted to at this years @themetgalaofficial. It was so festive there this year and the first time anyone had been out in a long time and we didn’t cross paths even though I saw him from the distance but I was caught in a conversation and when I looked up he was gone. I thought I had more time, I had no idea he didn’t have more time…,”
She continued:
“It was so brave how he continued his life work through the absolute most difficult of circumstances. I’m amazing how he continued no matter what to pursue what he loved and to bring opportunity to all, to open doors and elevate the worlds of fashion, design and art.
It gives me even more inspiration as I prepare for next years tennis season coming off of a few years of challenging injuries. I have a feeling everything I do and experience next year will be for Virgil and inspired by Virgil….
I can’t believe that he’s gone. It’s surreal, it feels like he’s still here. I love him, always have and always will,” she added.
The death of Virgil Abloh, a fashion designer, who was also an entrepreneur, and DJ who has been the artistic director of Louis Vuitton’s menswear collection since March 2018, was announced on Sunday. He died at the age of 41.
The popular fashion designer Virgil Abloh was said to have died following a battle with a rare form of cancer, the family said on Sunday 28th November 2021, in a statement released on his official social media.
“We are devastated to announce the passing of our beloved Virgil Abloh, a fiercely devoted father, husband, son, brother, and friend. He is survived by his loving wife Shannon Abloh, his children Lowe Abloh and Grey Abloh, his sister Edwina Abloh, his parents Nee and Eunice Abloh, and numerous dear friends and colleagues,” the family said.
The statement continued:
“For over two years, Virgil valiantly battled a rare, aggressive form of cancer, cardiac angiosarcoma. He chose to endure his battle privately since his diagnosis in 2019, undergoing numerous challenging treatments, all while helming several significant institutions that span fashion, art, and culture.
Through it all, his work ethic, infinite curiosity, and optimism never wavered. Virgil was driven by his dedication to his craft and to his mission to open doors for others and create pathways for greater equality in art and design. He often said, “Everything I do is for the 17-year-old version of myself,” believing deeply in the power of art to inspire future generations.
We thank you all for your love and support, and we ask for privacy as we grieve and celebrate Virgil’s life.
Virgil Abloh
September 30, 1980 – November 28, 2021,” the family stated.