Serena Williams turned heads on Saturday night as she attended the International Tennis Hall of Fame ceremony in Newport, Rhode Island. The 43-year-old tennis legend showcased her slim new figure in a pale blue minidress paired with striking electric blue-and-pink heels, her long blonde hair flowing freely.
The glamorous appearance came just days after Williams surprised fans by announcing she had lost 31 pounds with the help of GLP-1, a weight-loss medication. Speaking candidly, she admitted that after the births of her daughters Olympia (2017) and Adira (2023), she struggled for years to shed weight despite strict workouts and healthy eating. Eventually, she turned to GLP-1 treatments, which she says gave her back her energy and confidence.
At the event, Serena played a pivotal role by inducting longtime rival-turned-friend Maria Sharapova into the Hall of Fame. Introducing her, Serena shared on Instagram:
“Maria’s career, as her father put it, started with me and ended with me inducting her. I’m probably the last person you expected to see here tonight. A few years ago, I would’ve said the same. But now, we’re friends—and when a friend calls, you answer. This is women supporting women and respecting each other’s greatness.”
The moment carried extra significance given their past. Williams and Sharapova clashed on and off the court for years, meeting in four Grand Slam finals and the 2012 Olympic Games. At times, tensions flared publicly, with both athletes trading sharp words. Yet on Saturday night, Williams praised Sharapova as one of the few players who consistently pushed her to be her best.
Serena has been dropping hints about her weight-loss journey for months, often sharing swimsuit and gym photos with her 18 million Instagram followers. Her recent posts in a bright yellow bikini and a sleek gym outfit showed off defined abs and toned legs, drawing praise from fans and celebrities alike.
Explaining her decision to try GLP-1, Williams said she had done extensive research before committing, worried it might be seen as a shortcut. But after struggling for years, she embraced the treatment with the support of healthcare company Ro, where her husband, Alexis Ohanian, is a board member. “I feel more active, my joints don’t hurt, and I have so much more energy,” she said.
Now looking stronger than ever, Williams is balancing motherhood, health, and her evolving role off the court—all while showing grace in celebrating the career of a former rival who has become a close friend.
