Five months after welcoming her second child in August 2023, tennis superstar Serena Williams is keeping it real with her postpartum journey.
In a recent Instagram video, the 42-year-old begins by showcasing a cool Valentino skirt she acquired during her pregnancy with high hopes of fitting into it post-baby. However, as she attempts to pull the denim maxi up over her hips and booty, it becomes evident that the fit isn't quite there. Despite her efforts to wriggle and yank, the skirt refuses to budge.
"I can't fit it," Williams admits candidly. "But this is my goal. Honestly, I should've been able to fit it by now, but I ran into some, um... I got distracted for about a month," she quips, with a laugh.
Acknowledging the setback, Williams concludes, "Back to the drawer... for now!"
With daughters Olympia, 6, and Adira, 5 months, shared with husband Alexis Ohanian, Williams struck a chord with fellow moms who resonated with her postpartum struggles:
"Me too, Serena. I can't fit anything either. My baby is 10 years old."
"Well done on sharing the reality of postpartum... not just the glamorized Instagram version."
"I love your transparency. Whew, I can relate. The struggle is real."
"Yes, our daily struggle. I cannot even tell you how many items are in my closet waiting for me to fit in them."
In a 2018 interview with GQ, Williams revealed her past body insecurities, particularly comparing herself to her sister and fellow tennis champion, Venus Williams.
"I felt weird, like my boobs were bigger than Venus's, and my body was thicker. I was curvier," she shared. Williams recalled her late sister Yetunde's comforting words, reminding her that everyone's body is different and unique.
"You're never going to be as thin as her, and that's OK... You have a body on your own. You have a beautiful face," Yetunde reassured her. This conversation marked a turning point for Williams, fostering self-acceptance and confidence in her own skin.