In the rarefied air of elite athleticism, Serena Williams stands as a titan, a symbol of unparalleled power, unwavering discipline, and fierce dedication. For decades, the world watched her dominate the tennis courts, breaking records and inspiring millions with her relentless pursuit of greatness. Yet, even for a woman whose life has been defined by peak physical performance, personal health journeys can present unexpected challenges. In a candid and revealing interview, Williams has opened up about her own struggles with weight loss post-pregnancy and her decision to embrace GLP-1 medication, not as a shortcut, but as a crucial tool for holistic well-being, boldly challenging societal stigmas along the way.

The Post-Pregnancy Predicament: When Discipline Isn’t Enough

Williams’s journey into the world of GLP-1s (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1s) began after the birth of her children. Despite a lifetime of rigorous training, an athlete’s innate understanding of her body, and an almost superhuman work ethic, she found herself in a frustrating battle to return to a healthy weight. “I always like to post pictures of me working out for years and years, and it’s what I do,” Williams shared [00:13]. “And I really wanted to bring people along on this health journey because I feel like I started GLP-1s with Ro, and then I was like, ‘you know what? People need to know about this’.”

Her story resonates deeply with countless women who face similar struggles after childbirth, where hormonal shifts and the demands of motherhood can disrupt even the most disciplined routines. Serena, who admits she’s “not a person who takes shortcuts” [00:50] and “works really hard and harder than the next person” [00:56], tried everything. She recounted walking “10,000, 20,000 steps a day, literally, not missing a day” in Paris, trying different diets like vegan and vegetarian, and experimenting with various protein regimens [01:46]. Yet, the weight stubbornly refused to budge to a healthier place. This experience underscores a critical point: sometimes, even for the most dedicated individuals, traditional methods fall short, and the body requires a different kind of support.

Destigmatizing GLP-1s: A Champion’s Call for Openness

One of the most powerful aspects of Williams’s revelation is her explicit intent to destigmatize GLP-1 medication. In a world often quick to judge and label such medical interventions as “shortcuts” or “bad things,” Williams, with her unparalleled athletic credibility, offers a refreshing counter-narrative. “I feel like it’s like a secret, or it’s like, ‘oh, it’s a bad thing,’ or ‘you shouldn’t do it,’ or ‘oh, it’s taking a shortcut,’” she explained [00:29]. As an athlete, she felt a responsibility to share her experience and clarify that this was not about avoiding hard work, but about addressing a genuine physiological need.

Her doctor confirmed the positive impact, noting that her “blood sugar levels look the best they’ve ever looked” [03:17], reinforcing that for Serena, GLP-1s were a medical necessity for holistic health. The platform Ro, which she partnered with, provided accessible care and allowed her to consult with doctors and ask questions, an important aspect given the societal reluctance some feel about discussing such treatments with their primary physicians. By bravely stepping forward, Williams is not only normalizing the conversation but also empowering others to seek solutions that genuinely benefit their health, free from judgment.

A Lighter, Happier, Healthier Serena

The impact of GLP-1s on Serena’s life extends far beyond just numbers on a scale. She describes a profound shift in her overall well-being. “I’ve never felt better,” she beams [02:38]. “Like I’m just lighter and happier and just healthier, and I can move more, I can train more.” This sentiment highlights the multifaceted benefits of achieving a healthy weight, which can include improved energy levels, enhanced mobility, and a better mental state. For an athlete who has always pushed the boundaries of her physical capabilities, feeling “lighter and happier” translates directly into a renewed capacity for activity and engagement, not just in her personal life but also as a venture capitalist and mother.

Her transformation is a powerful testament to the idea that health is not a one-size-fits-all journey. What works for one person may not work for another, and embracing medical advancements when appropriate is a sign of self-care and empowerment. Williams’s openness about her personal path serves as an important reminder that health is a deeply individual experience, and destigmatizing tools that support it is a vital step towards a more compassionate and informed society.

Life Beyond the Court: Entrepreneur, Podcaster, Mom

Three years after “evolving away” from professional tennis, Serena Williams’s life is a vibrant tapestry of new ventures and enduring passions. She describes her current life as “a lot of fun” [04:04], embodying the spirit of a modern multi-hyphenate. Her roles now include full-time mom, full-time venture capitalist, and soon, a podcaster alongside her sister Venus. “No big deal, just on the side,” she quips about her demanding schedule [04:11].

Her upcoming podcast with Venus, titled “Stockton Street,” holds a special significance as it’s named after the street they grew up on [05:31]. The podcast aims to offer a “unique look at sports” from a top female athlete’s perspective, covering both women’s and men’s sports, alongside lifestyle topics like fashion and design [04:32]. Serena views it as “our doubles match, and we are coming back together for another Grand Slam win or gold medal” [05:14], hinting at the competitive yet collaborative spirit that has defined their bond. This new platform promises to be a fascinating exploration of their insights, experiences, and enduring sisterhood.

Serena also expressed excitement for Venus, who recently received a wild card [05:52]. She enjoys watching Venus practice and even offers to hit with her, showcasing their continuous support for each other’s careers. While her daughter Olympia isn’t quite ready for professional tennis (“No, she’s not good enough,” [06:12] Serena jokes good-naturedly), she does play a little, and Serena encourages her talent.

Looking ahead, Williams remains connected to the cultural zeitgeist, even weighing in on Super Bowl performers. While she didn’t name a specific artist, she acknowledged the popular “Taylor Swift of it all” [06:56], revealing her own “Swifty” status and the fact that her girls are also fans.

Serena Williams’s candor about her GLP-1 journey is more than just a personal anecdote; it’s a powerful statement from a global icon. By sharing her truth, she is not only shedding light on the complexities of health and weight management but also actively working to dismantle the judgment and misinformation that often surround medical interventions. Her message is one of empowerment, encouraging individuals to prioritize their health and embrace the tools that genuinely contribute to their well-being, all while continuing to inspire as a mother, entrepreneur, and enduring champion.