Serena Williams, 42, Says It Was a ‘Difficult’ Decision Leaving Tennis Which She Was ‘Still Good At’ to Have a Second Child: ‘Not Easy’

Serena Williams, the 42-year-old tennis legend, has opened up about the challenging decision to step away from the sport she excelled at to focus on her family. In a recent interview, Williams shared her reflections on leaving professional tennis to have a second child, describing the decision as one of the toughest in her career.

Having achieved remarkable success in her tennis career, including 23 Grand Slam titles, Williams was still performing at an elite level when she chose to pause her career. The decision to step away from the sport was not taken lightly, as Williams admitted that she was still very much in peak form and deeply passionate about the game.

“It’s not easy to leave something you’re still good at and love so much,” Williams said. “The decision to have a second child and focus on my family was incredibly difficult. I knew that I was leaving behind something that I excelled in, and that made it even more challenging.”

Williams’ choice to prioritize family came as she and her husband, Alexis Ohanian, welcomed their second child. Balancing professional success with personal life is a struggle many athletes face, and Williams’ candid remarks highlight the emotional complexity of such decisions.

Despite the challenges, Williams remains optimistic about her future. She has continued to be a prominent figure in sports and beyond, using her platform to inspire and support others. Her journey is a testament to the sacrifices and tough choices that come with balancing a successful career and family life.

Williams’ openness about her struggles and the difficult choice she made provides a deeper insight into the personal side of a sports icon. As she continues to navigate life beyond the court, her story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices many make in pursuit of their passions and the importance of family in finding fulfillment.