Fans of tennis champ Serena Williams can now get close-up with their favorite athlete.

Unilever, the maker of Close-Up toothpaste, announced today that Williams, known for her championship swing and her winning smile, is serving as the new face of the brand. Williams is showing off her beautiful, confident smile on packages of Close-Up toothpaste starting to hit retail store shelves.

"Hours of practice and an inexhaustible supply of commitment get me ready for the court," notes Williams. "Close-Up gets me ready for the cameras with a bright smile and fresh breath."

The new packaging features Williams on three collectible boxes - each with a different picture on the front. Consumers and fans of Williams can collect all three boxes, just like they do with popular collectible cereal boxes.

A national promotional campaign includes in-store displays, free standing inserts (coupons) and a consumer sweepstakes, where one lucky family of four will win an expense-paid trip to New York City, including courtside seats to the annual Grand Slam tournament in Flushing Meadows, N.Y.

Unilever expects the partnership to be an ace, helping to create excitement for the brand, increase awareness and drive sales.

"Since Serena hit the tennis scene, we -- like our consumers -- have admired her smile, her style and, of course, her talent," says Robert Blanc, director of oral care, Unilever. "When we heard she uses Close-Up, we knew she was our perfect match. Always in the spotlight, Serena knows the value of a bright smile and fresh breath."

Williams, 21, is currently ranked No. 1 in the world in women's tennis singles. In addition to conquering the most elite tennis players -- and having her smile splashed on a major consumer packaged goods brand -- Williams' aspirations include acting and fashion design.