Serena Williams Shares Weight Loss Journey with GLP-1 Medication

Serena Williams has publicly discussed her decision to use GLP-1 medications for weight loss, revealing that she lost 31 pounds over eight months following the births of her two daughters. The 43-year-old tennis champion, who serves as a paid spokesperson for the medication provider Ro, shared her experience during an appearance on the “Today” show.

Williams expressed that she had exhausted various weight management methods, stating, “I literally tried everything. Running, walking, biking, stair climber, you name it, I did it.” Despite her efforts, she struggled to achieve a healthy weight, particularly after giving birth to her daughter Olympia in 2017 and daughter Adira in 2023.

Shattering Stigmas Around Weight Loss Medications

Addressing the common perception that using weight-loss drugs is a shortcut, Williams emphasized her desire to contribute to a more open discussion about these treatments. “I wanted to tell folks of my weight-loss journey to help push back against the stigma that using a GLP-1 is lazy,” she noted. According to Ro’s website, GLP-1 medications mimic a hormone that regulates blood sugar, slows digestion, and promotes feelings of fullness. Notably, the controversial medication Ozempic is classified as a GLP-1.

Williams recounted her initial resistance to the medication, viewing it as an opponent she needed to overcome in her pursuit of fitness. “When GLP-1s came out, it was like, ‘No way, no how, it’s not for me. Don’t sign me up,’” she explained. After seeing friends successfully use the medication, she decided to give it a try, ultimately finding it effective for her needs.

Looking Back on Tennis and Future Aspirations

As the U.S. Open approached, which she won six times, including in 2014, Williams reflected on her retirement from professional tennis in August 2022. She expressed mixed feelings about her decision, stating, “I think there’s a part of me that will always miss tennis because when you do something for your entire life… that’s a huge change.” Despite this, Williams cherishes the memories and experiences she gained throughout her career.

Furthermore, she dismissed concerns regarding the use of weight-loss drugs, stating, “A lot of people are on it and don’t talk about it.” Williams advocates for honesty and openness in discussing health and wellness, reinforcing her commitment to transparency in her own journey.

Through her candid remarks, Serena Williams continues to inspire conversations about body image, health, and the choices individuals make in their pursuit of wellness.