MIAMI — Tennis legend Serena Williams has opened up about her stunning body transformation three years after retiring from professional tennis, sharing insights into her fitness journey, motherhood, and newfound priorities. The 23-time Grand Slam champion, recently photographed posing confidently on a yacht, revealed how her relationship with her body has evolved since stepping away from the sport.
From Elite Athlete to Life After Tennis
Williams, who retired in 2022 after an illustrious 27-year career, admitted that adjusting to life without competitive tennis was initially challenging. "For so long, my body was a machine built for one purpose: winning. When that chapter ended, I had to rediscover what health and fitness meant to me," she shared in an exclusive interview with Vogue.
The athlete-turned-entrepreneur emphasized that her current fitness regimen looks drastically different from her training days:
- Reduced high-impact workouts to protect her joints
- Incorporated more yoga and Pilates for flexibility
- Focuses on functional fitness rather than sport-specific training
- Prioritizes recovery with meditation and proper sleep
The Role of Motherhood in Her Transformation
Williams, who welcomed her second daughter Adira in August 2023, spoke candidly about how motherhood reshaped her perspective. "After having Olympia, I was so focused on getting back to tennis shape. This time, I wanted to honor what my body had accomplished," she reflected.
The 42-year-old explained that her current approach balances health with practicality:
- Shorter, more efficient workouts that fit around parenting
- Emphasis on core strength to prevent postpartum issues
- Nutrition focused on energy rather than strict dieting
A New Relationship With Food
Williams revealed she's embraced a more flexible approach to nutrition compared to her playing days. "I used to eat for performance—every calorie had a purpose. Now I eat for joy too. That doesn't mean unhealthy, but I don't stress over the occasional treat," she said.
The Yacht Photos That Sparked Conversation
Recent images of Williams looking radiant in a swimsuit aboard a luxury yacht went viral, with fans praising her post-retirement physique. "Those pictures represent how far I've come—not just physically, but in my self-acceptance," Williams commented.
Fitness experts note that Williams' current shape reflects a healthy balance:
- Maintains muscular definition while appearing less bulky
- Shows evidence of consistent, moderate exercise
- Demonstrates the natural changes that occur when transitioning from elite athletics
Advice for Women Navigating Similar Transitions
Williams offered encouragement to other women experiencing body changes due to career shifts, aging, or motherhood: "Your worth isn't tied to how you look or what you achieve. My journey taught me to appreciate my body for what it can do, not just how it appears."
She emphasized three key lessons from her transformation:
- Progress isn't linear—be patient with yourself
- Find activities you genuinely enjoy
- Celebrate small victories along the way
What's Next for Serena?
While no longer competing, Williams remains active in the tennis world through her venture capital firm, Serena Ventures, and various philanthropic efforts. She hinted at potentially returning to the court for exhibition matches, but made clear: "I'm enjoying this chapter too much to rush back to anything."
As for fitness goals? Williams says she's focused on longevity: "I want to be that 80-year-old who can still play with her grandkids. That's the real prize now."
The tennis icon's journey serves as an inspiring example of how to gracefully navigate major life transitions while maintaining health and self-confidence. Her message resonates beyond sports: "Transformation isn't about going back to who you were—it's about becoming who you're meant to be next."