Serena Williams GLP-1 weight loss

Serena Williams is entering a new phase of life, and surprisingly, she says she feels healthier now than when she was dominating professional tennis. Recently, the 23-time Grand Slam champion spoke with PEOPLE about the positive changes she has experienced after using a GLP-1 weight-loss medication.

Rather than focusing on performance or competition, Williams says her goal today is overall well-being. As a result, her health journey has brought renewed energy and confidence.

“I feel healthier. I feel lighter. I feel great,” Williams shared. “Most importantly, it’s a really good feeling.”

Why Serena Williams Chose GLP-1 Medication

GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist. These medications help regulate appetite by signaling fullness in the brain. Because of this, many people experience improved weight control and metabolic health. Popular GLP-1 medications include Ozempic and Mounjaro.

Williams began using GLP-1 medication through healthcare platform Ro. However, she stressed that her decision was not about shortcuts. Instead, it was about living a healthier and more balanced life.

In contrast to her playing days, she now prioritizes sustainability over intensity.

Weight Loss and Improved Health Markers

Since starting the medication, Williams has lost 34 pounds. More importantly, the weight loss has led to measurable health improvements. For example, her cholesterol levels dropped by 30%.

As a result, her lifetime risk of heart disease decreased by a relative 70%. According to Williams, these numbers matter more than the scale alone.

“I’ve seen huge improvements in my numbers,” she explained. “Because of that, I feel more confident about my health.”

Moreover, Williams emphasized that these changes have improved her daily life. She says she feels stronger, lighter, and more comfortable in her body.

Rediscovering the Joy of Movement

Because she feels healthier, Williams has become more active again. However, this time, exercise feels enjoyable rather than demanding.

For instance, she has been playing tennis casually, going for walks, running, and practicing Pilates. Additionally, she says movement now feels natural.

“It feels free,” Williams said. “I feel like I’m at my healthiest.”

Although she sometimes feels tired, she says the fatigue feels rewarding. In contrast to her professional career, she now listens closely to her body.

As a result, sports have become fun again instead of stressful.

No Plans to Return to Professional Tennis

Despite feeling better than ever, Williams has no plans to return to professional tennis. Still, she admits that thinking about a comeback is normal for elite athletes.

“I think about it sometimes,” she said. “However, that doesn’t mean I would do it.”

Williams explained that she retired to focus on her family. She shares two daughters, Alexis Olympia and Adira River, with her husband Alexis Ohanian. Therefore, her priorities have changed.

Meanwhile, she joked that the idea of a “summer of Serena” still sounds tempting.

Addressing the Stigma Around GLP-1 Medications

In addition to improving her health, Williams hopes her openness helps reduce stigma around GLP-1 medications. In recent years, these treatments have faced criticism and misunderstanding.

However, Williams believes transparency is powerful.

“I wanted to share my story honestly,” she said. “Because of that, people feel less ashamed.”

For example, she recalled a moment when a stranger approached her at a fair. He told her he started GLP-1 medication after hearing her story. As a result, Williams realized how many people she had inspired.

Super Bowl Commercial and Advocacy

Next, Williams will appear in a Super Bowl commercial for Ro’s “Healthier on Ro” campaign. She will be joined by Charles Barkley and other patients who improved their health.

According to Williams, the Super Bowl offers an unmatched platform. Therefore, it allows her to reach millions with an honest message.

“There’s no bigger stage,” she said. “Ultimately, I want to break down barriers.”

Moreover, she hopes her story encourages people to focus on health rather than judgment.

A New Definition of Success

Today, Serena Williams defines success differently. Instead of trophies, she values longevity, mobility, and presence. As a result, her health journey feels deeply meaningful.