Serena Williams took to Instagram on March 13 to share a heartfelt message of self-acceptance and celebration. The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion posted a series of swimsuit photographs, showcasing her in an olive green one-piece suit, paired unexpectedly with UGG slippers and a fluffy pink cardigan. The candid images, set against a sunny backyard backdrop, serve as a reminder for her followers to embrace their individuality.
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In her Instagram caption, Williams stated, “I am not perfect….but I’m perfectly me. Take out time today to celebrate being perfectly you! 💋.” This proclamation resonated with many, prompting an outpouring of supportive comments from fans and followers alike. One user praised her with, “Great post Serena, hope you’re feeling good 🫵🏼💪🏼🫶🏼👑,” while another expressed admiration, calling her a “Champion! Legacy! Bold! Trendsetter! Mother! 🔥🔥🔥🔥.”
The tennis icon’s recent post follows her candid discussions about her health journey, particularly regarding her weight loss and overall well-being. In late January, Williams talked exclusively to PEOPLE about her use of the GLP-1 medication, Ro, which has reportedly led to significant positive changes in her life. Since beginning the treatment, she has lost 34 pounds and has seen her cholesterol levels reduced by 30%, resulting in a notable decrease in her lifetime risk of heart disease.
Feeling invigorated and healthier, the 44-year-old athlete shared, “I feel lighter. I feel great. It’s a really good feeling.” Williams highlighted how the medication has had a transformative effect on her lifestyle, enabling her to be more active and present for her daughters, Alexis Olympia, aged eight, and Adira River, aged two, whom she shares with husband Alexis Ohanian.
Williams described the newfound ease with which she navigates daily activities. “I’m more active. My joints don’t hurt as much. I just feel like something as simple as just getting down is a lot easier for me,” she explained, expressing an increase in her overall energy levels. “I just feel pretty good about it.”
She emphasised that her experience with GLP-1 has enhanced her existing healthy habits and fitness routines, stating, “GLP-1 helped me enhance everything that I was already doing—eating healthy and working out.” Williams encouraged others facing similar health challenges to consider her journey, believing that many can relate to her story.
In her previous conversation with PEOPLE, Williams addressed the stigma surrounding GLP-1 medications, aiming to normalise discussions about health interventions that can significantly improve well-being. “I just wanted to naturally share my story and tell everyone that it’s not a shortcut,” she asserted. Her advocacy for the medication has garnered attention, with people openly sharing that her journey inspired them to seek similar treatments.
Recently, she recounted an encounter at a fair where a man approached her to say that he began using GLP-1s due to her influence. “I love the impact it’s making, not only with women but with men as well,” she noted, reflecting on the broader implications of her openness regarding health and wellness.
As Williams continues to embrace her individuality and promote a message of self-love, her latest post reminds fans that everyone is worthy of celebrating themselves. Through her unique blend of personal revelations and advocacy, she hopes to inspire others to prioritise their health while celebrating the genuine selves they are.