Serena Williams has opened up about her weight loss journey, sharing that she lost 31 pounds with the help of GLP-1 medication following the birth of her second child.
In an interview with TODAY.com, the 23-time Grand Slam champion explained that she began using the medication about a year ago as part of her paid partnership with the health care company Ro. While she did not specify which type of GLP-1 she takes, she said it has been an important step in improving her health.
According to NBC News, Ro is a telehealth company that prescribes GLP-1 drugs, seeking to reduce the stigma surrounding weight loss medications. Williams’ husband, Alexis Ohanian, is an investor in the company and sits on its board.
Williams on her decision
Williams admitted that the decision to start the medication came after years of trying other approaches. “This all started after I had my (first) kid,” she said. “As a woman, you go through different cycles in your life. No matter what I did — running, walking, I literally was playing a professional sport — I could never get back to where I needed to be for my health.”
After her second child, she said it became even harder to manage her weight. She also experimented with vegan and vegetarian diets before deciding to try something new.
Her doctor has since noted improvements in her blood sugar levels, and Williams shared that her joints now feel “lighter.” She also reflected that her struggles with weight may have influenced some of her career outcomes, particularly when she was dealing with knee problems after pregnancy.
Addressing side effects
Williams emphasized that she personally hasn’t experienced negative effects from the drug, though she acknowledged that some people do. “I put my body through a lot. I understand that there are lots of side effects, I just didn’t have any,” she said.
According to NBC News, common side effects can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation, though these often improve over time.
Last week, Williams partnered with Ro to launch a new campaign encouraging open conversations about GLP-1 medications. She said her hope is to normalize their use for weight loss and inspire others to pursue healthier lifestyles.
When asked whether she sees herself using the drug long term, she explained, “I feel like, after having my kids, my body was missing something. I don’t know if it’s something that the GLP-1 has, but I just feel normal again.”
What are GLP-1 medications?
As TODAY.com explains, GLP-1 drugs — also called GLP-1 agonists — work by mimicking a hormone produced after eating. This helps suppress appetite, creates a feeling of fullness, and slows stomach emptying. These medications are also approved for diabetes treatment, as they stimulate the pancreas to release insulin.
Doctors typically prescribe GLP-1s for patients with obesity or diabetes, alongside lifestyle changes like improved diet and regular exercise.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
