Serena Williams has been named Sports Illustrated's Sportsperson of the Year, making her the first female athlete to be given the standalone title by the magazine in more than 30 years.

According to Sports Illustrated, runner Mary Decker, in 1983, was the last female athlete to earn the magazine's award by herself.

Williams has had an amazing year, so it comes as no surprise that she would be the magazine's choice for the title. The 34-year-old came within just two matches of tennis' first calendar-year Grand Slam since 1988.

Overall, in 2015 the tennis pro won five titles, including the Australian Open, French Open and Wimbledon. Williams was also No. 1 in the Women's Tennis Association rankings all season.

"She was the most deserving person for the award. She had an amazing year. The way she won her events; the fact that she's done this for so many years at such a high level," said Paul Fichtenbaum, editor of the Sports Illustrated Group. "She was a terrific candidate in a year of terrific candidates."

Williams took to Instagram to post the magazine cover and to express her gratitude to Sports Illustrated for the title.

 This year was spectacular for me. For @SportsIllustrated to recognize my hard work, my dedication, and my sheer determination gives me hope to continue on and do better. As I always say, it takes a village it's not just one person. This is not just an accomplishment for me, but for my whole team. I am beyond honored. I love you guys! 2016? #letsdoit ❤️

The announcement of Williams' title also marks a change to the name of the SI award -- past recipients were given the title Sportsman or Sportswoman of the Year.

"We just felt this was a natural evolution. ... We're not making a huge deal out of it," Fichtenbaum said. "It just feels like the right time to make the change."