Serena Williams: ‘It Has Been a Struggle to Love My Body’

Serena Williams had a banner year in tennis, winning three of the four majors, finishing the season with a 53-3 record and being named the Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year. But the 34-year-old tennis player was also subjected to continued negative commentary — and even attacks — on her body. In a recent interview with The Times Magazine, Williams spoke about her personal battle with body image.

“When I was younger, it was hard seeing all these thin athletes when I had more muscular curves and was big-busted,” she said. “Just try running with DDs that are bouncing seven inches up and down! It’s distracting, not to mention dangerous, because you can tear ligaments.”

She also explained how she has learned to love herself and ignore her critics. “I know I get flack for my physique, and it has been a struggle to love my body, but now curves are in and I’m happier [with] myself,” Williams said. “Women face so many impossible ideals. It’s important for me to get across that there’s more than one way to look amazing.