Serena Williams exposes dark side of Hollywood fame

Published: Apr 15 2025

Serena Williams, the retired American tennis phenomenon who recently stirred headlines by publicly addressing her past romance with Drake, has recently shed light on the profound sacrifices fame entails within Hollywood's glittering sphere. At the ripe age of 43, Serena has etched her name in history with an astonishing 23 Grand Slam victories, a reign as the undisputed queen of tennis, and the launch of her thriving cosmetics venture, WYN Beauty.

Serena Williams exposes dark side of Hollywood fame 1

Yet, beneath the relentless glare of the spotlight, this superstar mother of two, sharing her life with husband Alexis Ohanian, finds herself perpetually grappling with the delicate balance between her illustrious career and its ramifications on her family bonds and personal relationships. During a lively engagement at her WYN Beauty x Shopify pop-up event, Serena confided in PEOPLE, her voice tinged with sincerity, "Yes, the price tag is exorbitant."

"I find myself here in California, away from my cherished children, and that weighs heavily on my heart. I cherish the time we share; their attachment to me brings me immense joy. Thus, every absence exacts a toll," she continued, her eyes reflecting a blend of pride and poignancy.

The holder of four Olympic gold medals candidly acknowledged that her professional endeavors have exacted a steep personal cost, prompting endless contemplation over their ultimate worth. She elaborated, "Throughout my journey, I've constantly pondered, 'To clinch that championship, what must I forfeit?'"

"It demands sacrifices of my family time, friendships, and intimate relationships—all invaluable. The question, then, becomes: Is it worth it for me? That is a decision each individual must grapple with," she mused thoughtfully.

For those unfamiliar, the fleeting yet unforgettable romance between music legend Drake and Serena Williams captivated the world's attention, their former love manifesting in public appearances that left onlookers enraptured.

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