The tennis legend’s hairstylist, Angela Meadows, shares the exclusive BTS details with PEOPLE

Serena Williams is yet again proving that her talents go beyond the court.

On Thursday, July 11, the 42-year-old tennis legend flexed her hosting skills at the 2024 ESPY Awards, an annual event that recognizes athletic achievement. Williams kicked off the night strong, arriving to Los Angeles’ Dolby Theatre in an Old Hollywood-inspired look, complete with a bombshell blonde hairstyle. Throughout the night, the WYN Beauty founder (who was styled by Kesha McLeod) underwent a series of outfit changes and wore eight total looks, including a tenniscore after party ensemble.

When it came to designing the hairstyles, Williams’ hairstylist Angela Meadows tells PEOPLE exclusively that the tennis star wanted to “be very out there.”

“She wanted to be blonder. She really wanted to have these cool looks,” the stylist explains. “So my first thoughts was, well, if we are going to do that, we have to step it up. I have to find good products.”

To keep Williams’ hair looking its best for the many quick changes, Meadows used Wella Professionals Ultimate Repair Miracle Hair Rescue, which she says works in just 90 seconds.

“I have to make sure that the hair is shiny and beautiful and with no frizz,” she says.

Ahead, get the details on Williams’ eight outfit changes and hairstyles for the 2024 ESPYs.

Old Hollywood Glam

Serena Williams on the 2024 ESPYs red carpet.

Williams hit the red carpet in a figure-hugging, custom Giorgio Armani Privé black gown with a fully embroidered bra and train in gold Swarovski crystals. She accessorized with jewels by David Yurman — the High Jewelry Linear Drop Earrings in 18K White Gold with Yellow Beryl and Diamonds and Sculpted Cable Ring in 18K Yellow Gold with Diamonds.

To complement the look, Meadows created a blonde bob with bouncy waves. “I wanted to give her an old Hollywood glam inspired look to set the stage for this momentous night,” Meadows tells PEOPLE. “The chic, classic bombshell waves build up hype for the incredible looks we have planned throughout the rest of the awards ceremony.”

In addition to the Wella Professionals Ultimate Repair Miracle Hair Rescue, Meadows also used Wella Professionals EIMI Nutricurls Boost Bounce to create the look.

Pretty in Pink

Serena Williams at the 2024 ESPYs.

Williams embraced Barbiecore with this custom pink minidress by Galia Lahav. The asymmetrical hemline featured a fun feather detail and the star accessorized with pointed-toe stilettos. To match the playful look, Meadows created a voluminous blonde curly hairstyle.

Dramatic Sleeves

Serena Williams at the 2024 ESPYs.

For a high-fashion switch-up, Williams donned this red leather minidress with dramatic puffed sleeves and a large gemstone ring to match. Her straight, sleek hairstyle and metallic silver pumps complemented the bold style.

Black Blazer Dress

Serena Williams at the 2024 ESPYs.

Williams wore another blazer dress during her hosting gig. This custom black David Koma ensemble features a large silver feather embroidered on one sleeve. Her black strappy sandals added to the edgy vibe, as did the sleek, crimped hairstyle that Meadows created.

Sheer Corset Dress

Serena Williams at the 2024 ESPYs.

Williams achieved sultry glamour with this sheer corset dress and equally sexy blonde blowout.

Leopard Print Moment

Serena Williams at the 2024 ESPYs.

Williams took a break from gowns to rock this leopard print top with a dramatic train and matching scarf. She completed the look with black cropped trousers and black pumps.

Red-Hot Glam

Serena Williams at the 2024 ESPYs.

The tennis legend made her star power known with this textured red halter dress and glamorous updo. The custom Ferragamo gown, which she wore with Borgogna calf pumps, features Bordeaux patent metallic leather sequins and an ostrich feather degradè.

Tenniscore

Serena Williams at the 2024 ESPYs after party.

For the ESPYs after party, Williams paid homage to her trailblazing tennis career by wearing white sneakers, a minidress that’s reminiscent of tennis ball-green and a eye-popping, multi-gem tennis necklace. Her hair was styled into a playful half-up look with soft waves.