Tennis star Venus Williams’ confidence remains at its peak.
The tennis ace has been doing her part to spread awareness and actively work to improve the mental health of those on and off the court.
In August, her sister, Serena Williams, announced her withdrawal from the U.S. Open.
“After careful consideration and following the advice of my doctors and medical team, I have decided to withdraw from the US Open to allow my body to heal completely from a torn hamstring,” Williams wrote via Instagram.
Last month, Williams partnered up with BetterHelp and the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) to provide those who sign up with one month of free therapy through the BetterHelp online counseling website.
“The challenge of taking care of our mental health through the ups and downs of life is something that all of us, no matter our background, can relate to,” Williams said in a statement. “Now more than ever, we need to create an accepting and open environment to seek professional mental health therapy.”
For Williams, tennis has always been in her blood. She recently watched her sister Williams stepped onto the court, knowingly injured and in pain — willing to push through. A feat many of us would not have had the stomach to face.
“We’re like gladiators out there, literally,” she tells Cosmopolitan in a recent interview. “You go out there with your lance and it’s just you.”
Williams also reflected in Naomi Osaka’s recent friction with the press. This year, Osaka has fought to protect her mental health and for her troubles, she has received a tsunami of backlash and criticism from online critics and some members of the media.
Williams is empathetic.
“I admire everyone who stands up for what is right, which isn’t easy,” she says. “It takes strength, courage, and vulnerability. I love to see this next generation of players be willing and open to do that regardless of the cost to them.”
