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Tennis Star Serena Williams Opens Up About Weight Loss Journey
Tennis legend Serena Williams revealed Thursday that she’s using weight loss medication. In an interview on “TODAY,” Williams explained her decision, stating that despite rigorous diet and exercise, she struggled to reach a healthy weight after the births of her daughters, Olympia and Adira.
Williams emphasized her commitment to hard work, saying she avoids shortcuts. Even with hours of running and walking after Olympia’s birth in 2017, she couldn’t return to her target weight. This struggle continued after Adira’s birth in 2023.
Health concerns also motivated Williams. With a family history of diabetes, a disease more prevalent among African Americans, and persistent knee problems exacerbated by childbirth, she saw weight loss as crucial for her overall well-being. Williams believes her weight may have even impacted her tennis performance, potentially costing her wins during her illustrious career.
Williams has partnered with the telehealth company Ro to promote understanding and acceptance of weight loss medications. She aims to challenge the stigma surrounding these drugs, emphasizing they are not an “easy way out.”
Her husband, Alexis Ohanian, is an investor in and board member of Ro. Williams joins other celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, Charles Barkley, and Meghan Trainor who have publicly discussed their use of such medications.
Williams started taking GLP-1 receptor agonists, a class of drugs that includes Ozempic and Wegovy, almost a year ago. These medications work by mimicking a gut hormone that suppresses appetite.
Since April, Williams has lost 31 pounds and reports feeling “normal again.” While acknowledging potential side effects, she hasn’t experienced any herself.
Williams views the medication as a long-term solution for maintaining a healthy weight.