Serena Williams: Body image struggles defined early career

Tennis legend Serena Williams has shared her past difficulties with body image, particularly during the initial 15 years of her professional career. She explained that her physique, characterized by a larger bust and behind, differed significantly from the leaner build of many other athletes at the time.

This disparity, coupled with public scrutiny, profoundly impacted her mental state. At just 17 years old, after winning her first Open, Williams made a conscious decision to avoid reading any press about herself. This strategy helped her remain grounded and shielded her from negativity.

Williams expressed satisfaction that the landscape has improved for emerging Black tennis stars. She observed that today's young athletes are not subjected to the same derogatory remarks she once faced, although she acknowledged the persistence of online trolls.