Behind the veneer of an unstoppable champion, Serena Williams faced multiple “medical crises” and personal struggles that, at various points, brought her perilously
close to retirement. More than just common tennis injuries, Serena’s battles were often life-threatening and deeply personal, leaving many to wonder how she consistently
returned to the pinnacle of the sport.
Perhaps the most harrowing was the pulmonary embolism she suffered after giving birth to her daughter, Olympia, in 2017. Her candid account of multiple surgeries, blood clots
in her lungs, and being bedridden for weeks revealed a terrifying near-death experience. Prior to that, she’d faced other serious blood clot issues. Beyond physical ailments,
there were persistent rumors of her considering retirement during less dominant periods, fueled by the relentless demands of the tour and a desire for a life beyond tennis.
Each time, however, her unwavering passion for the game and her competitive spirit pulled her back. These hidden struggles highlight the immense strength required not just to win, but to simply continue. Serena’s career is a
testament not only to her athletic genius but also to an almost superhuman resilience in the face of profound personal and professional adversity.
