The 36-year-old had a down week and wasn't afraid to share that fact with the public. Serena Williams has taken to Instagram to explain the “personal reasons” that kept her out of this week’s Rogers Cup in Montreal. The 23-time major champion says that postpartum emotions got the best of her and she fell into a funk as she tried to find the balance between her personal and professional life.
“Last week was not easy for me,” she wrote. “Not only was I accepting some tough personal stuff, but I just was in a funk. Mostly, I felt like I was not a good mom.”
“I read several articles that said postpartum emotions can last up to 3 years if not dealt with,” she wrote. “I like communication best. Talking things through with my mom, my sisters, my friends let me know that my feelings are totally normal. It’s totally normal to feel like I’m not doing enough for my baby.”
Since she gave birth to her daughter Olympia last September, Williams has stressed that being a role model is more important to her than ever. She has talked often about her willingness to embrace the responsibility that comes with being a superstar athlete, and she has been more open with the public about issues, particularly motherhood, but also women’s rights and equality.
“We have all been there,” Williams continued. “I work a lot, I train, and I’m trying to be the best athlete I can be. However, that means although I have been with her every day of her life, I’m not around as much as I would like to be. Most of you moms deal with the same thing. Whether stay-at-home or working, finding that balance with kids is a true art. You are the true heroes.”
Several stars took to Twitter to praise Williams and show her support on Monday. Here are a few samplings of that support.
You’re a badass lady !
— andyroddick (@andyroddick) August 6, 2018
I’ve been a fan of Serena’s for nearly 20 years, she is as brilliant an athlete as there has ever been – but to watch the honesty, strength and vulnerability she’s displayed as a working mother has been jaw-dropping. My constant respect from one working mother to another. https://t.co/JQ8DSyO2fZ
— Sally Field (@sally_field) August 7, 2018
Serena withdrew from #RogersCup citing "personal reasons".
Here's what she meant…📺: #TCLive
Watch now→ https://t.co/tPoe44TDv0 pic.twitter.com/zcKaTdyArK— Tennis Channel (@TennisChannel) August 7, 2018