Serena Williams shares a special relationship with the Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle. The two have been friends for years. Not only did Williams attend the Royal Wedding between the Duchess and Prince Harry, but she also threw Markle a baby shower in New York months later. However, their friendship has a line that the tennis superstar is not yet willing to cross.
Williams is currently in London for this year’s Wimbledon Tournament. During an interview with BBC, she admitted that she limits her “motherhood” talks with Markle. The 23-time Grand Slam champ says she believes it’s important for first-time parents to have a chance to figure out the first few months on their own.
“I never pass on words of wisdom because I feel like, everyone, when they have a kid, especially when you just have a baby, it’s so difficult to just be,” Williams said.
Williams says she would prefer for her friend to get through the first three or four months before she offers any input or advice.
Williams also discussed her own parenting during the interview. She gave birth to Alexis Olympia Ohanian, Jr. in September 2017 and says her daughter has changed her life for the better. When it comes to raising her little one, the apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree.
“I’m definitely going to incorporate a lot of the stuff my parents did with me,” she said. “I had a really good environment growing up.”
That environment also included more siblings. While she’s not ruling out more children, it’s not a discussion she’s ready to have at the moment.
“I can’t provide that for Olympia right now,” Williams added with a smile.
But what she can provide is a positive role model for her daughter and other young girls across the world. Williams says being a mother has inspired her to change the perception of women in the media. She says she has a voice and plans to use it in a way that makes a difference.
