United States: Serena Williams has revealed that she has been struggling with postpartum emotions in recent weeks.
The 36-year-old American has struggled to hit top form in the court of late, suffering the worst defeat of her career in a 6-1 6-0 loss to Jo Konta in the Silicon Valley Classic and withdrawing from the Rogers Cup due to “personal issues”.
And Williams has now revealed the context for that slump in an extremely personal and open statement on Instagram, where the 23-time Grand Slam winner says she has been struggling with postpartum emotions.
“Last week was not easy for me. Not only was I accepting some tough personal stuff, but I just was in a funk,” Williams said in the post. “Mostly, I felt like I was not a good mom.
” I read several articles that said postpartum emotions can last up to 3 years if not dealt with. I like communication best. Talking things through with my mom, my sisters, my friends let me know that my feelings are totally normal. It’s totally normal to feel like I’m not doing enough for my baby.”
Williams added that she understood how feeling overwhelmed was a normal part of being a new mother and encouraged anyone struggling through a rough patch to stay positive.
“We have all been there. I work a lot, I train, and I’m trying to be the best athlete I can be,” she said. “However, that means although I have been with her every day of her life, I’m not around as much as I would like to be.
“Most of you moms deal with the same thing. Whether stay-at-home or working, finding that balance with kids is a true art. You are the true heroes.
“I’m here to say: if you are having a rough day or week –it’s ok — I am, too!!! There’s always tomm!”
The statement has been greeted with widespread support from fans, players and journalists, with many suggesting that Williams’ open attitude could offer “help for other mothers who may be suffering”.
