Serena Williams Withdraws from Australian Open: “I’m Not Where I Want to Be”
New mom Serena Williams is taking a temporary break. Four months after giving birth to daughter Alexis Olympia, her first child with husband Alexis Ohanian, the athlete has announced that she’s withdrawing from the upcoming Australian Open.
“After performing in my first match after giving birth I realized that although I am super close I’m not where I personally want to be,” the tennis star shared on Snapchat on Thursday night.
“My coach and team always said, ‘Only go to tournaments when you are prepared to go all the way,'” Williams continued. “With that being said I am disappointed to say I’ve decided not to compete in The Australian Open this year.”
Williams competed in — and won — last year’s Open while four months pregnant. But in her first post-maternity match just days ago, she lost to Jelena Ostapenko in the Mubadala World Tennis Championship in Abu Dhabi.
“The memory of last year’s Open is one that I will carry with me, and Olympia and I look forward to coming back again,” Williams concluded her statement. “I appreciate the support and understanding of my fans and everyone at the Australian Open.”
Williams and Ohanian have been enjoying life at home with a newborn, frequently sharing photo updates on social media. Of course, it isn’t an easy ride, and Williams hasn’t shied away from giving a realistic glimpse into the difficulties of raising an infant. She recently reached out to her Instagram followers for teething advice for her baby daughter.
We wish her all the best in her continued training and look forward to seeing her back on the court!
Have you ever had to cancel a major obligation? Let us know @BritandCo.
(Photo via Clive Brunskill/Getty)
