Serena Williams Credits Early Career for Focus on Motherhood

BREAKING: Tennis legend Serena Williams reveals that her early dedication to her career has allowed her to prioritize motherhood today. In a candid interview with Net-A-Porter, published on Monday, she stated, “I feel fortunate that I’ve had a career and that I don’t have to do what most people do. I’m very lucky.”

At just 15 years old, Williams turned professional in 1995 and went on to secure an astonishing 23 Grand Slam titles before her retirement in 2022. Now, at age 44, she emphasizes how those years of hard work have paved the way for her to be a more present mother to her two daughters, Olympia and Adira.

Williams explained, “I put in the hard work, like we all are doing, but I did it a little bit earlier. So, I think that’s really working in my favor. And [now I can] just put my kids first.” She strives to be home with her family “29 nights a month,” balancing her commitments with her venture capital firm, Serena Ventures.

In the interview, she reflected on her protective nature as a mother, sharing, “With Olympia, I didn’t leave her until she was five! That may have been a little extreme. And it’s not recommended!” Despite the challenges of juggling a busy schedule, Williams has made it clear that family remains her top priority.

“I want to be around my family. I’m cooking every night that I’m home,” she reiterated. Earlier, in an April 2022 conversation with Business Insider, she spoke about the pressures of “mom guilt,” stating, “I always feel so guilty when I’m doing something on my own.”

Williams, who married Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian in 2017, continues to find joy in motherhood, asserting that her children bring her more happiness than any trophy. “I can’t say that a Wimbledon trophy holds a candle to volunteering at my kid’s school,” she told Byrdie in 2024.

As she navigates the challenges of motherhood alongside her thriving professional life, Williams serves as a powerful example of how early sacrifices can lead to fulfilling family life. Her commitment to being present for her children resonates with many working parents today, making her story highly relatable and shareable.

Stay tuned for more updates as Williams continues to balance her impressive career and family life.