Serena Williams opened up in a social media post on Monday about some of the struggles she is enduring in her personal life.
Last week, Williams lost to Johanna Konta 6-1, 6-0 for the worst defeat of her career. She subsequently withdrew from the Rogers Cup due to personal reasons. The results showed that Williams is not at her athletic best, which is something quite understandable given that Williams only gave birth in September.
In her post on Instagram, Williams discussed her difficulties in trying to balance being great as a mother and tennis player.
Here is her full message:
Last week was not easy for me. 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. 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.
We have all been there. 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.
I’m here to say: if you are having a rough day or week–it’s ok–I am, too!!! There’s always tomm!
Williams often looks invincible on the court, but she did not shy away from sharing her vulnerabilities in this situation. That takes a lot of courage. Not only should opening up about her difficulties help her move forward emotionally, but her message may also resonate with many other moms who feel the same way.
