Alexi Lubomirski
Serena Williams Looks Fierce as Ever in Unretouched Images and We’re Here for It — See Pics!
There’s nothing like natural beauty. Serena Williams dazzled the cover of Harper Bazzar’s August 2019 issue in unretouched photos, proving there’s nothing more attractive than authenticity.
The 37-year-old also rocked her natural hair, giving us more reason to love her — and she didn’t stop wow-ing us there. During the interview, she got candid about what exactly went down behind the scenes with Naomi Osaka, who beat her at the 2018 U.S. open.
During the match, Serena was punished due to claims she received illegal coaching, as well as for suggesting the umpire was sexist. Eventually, this led many to pit her and Naomi, 21, against each other. Serena wanted to set the record straight and let fans how she addressed the difficult topic with Naomi.
“Days passed, and I still couldn’t find peace. I started seeing a therapist,” she told the outlet. “I was searching for answers, and although I felt like I was making progress, I still wasn’t ready to pick up a racket. Finally I realized that there was only one way for me to move forward. It was time for me to apologize to the person who deserved it the most. I started to type, slowly at first, then faster as if the words were flowing out of me.”
Then, she revealed what she wrote to her former opponent. “Hey, Naomi! It’s Serena Williams. As I said on the court, I am so proud of you and I am truly sorry. I thought I was doing the right thing in sticking up for myself. But I had no idea the media would pit us against each other. I would love the chance to live that moment over again.”
She continued, “I am, was, and will always be happy for you and supportive of you. I would never, ever want the light to shine away from another female, specifically another black female athlete. I can’t wait for your future, and believe me I will always be watching as a big fan! I wish you only success today and in the future. Once again, I am so proud of you. All my love and your fan, Serena.”
That’s strength, right there!
