Serena Williams has been surrounded by a bubble of love, congratulations and well wishes since her pregnancy news was announced last week, but unfortunately, one individual in particular has threatened to spoil the celebrations.
The tennis ace has hit back at fellow professional Ilie Nastase, who reportedly made a racist remark regarding Serena’s unborn child with fiancé Alexis Ohanian.
When asked about Serena’s pregnancy news at a press conference for a Fed Cup match on Friday, Nastase is said to have replied: “Let’s see what colour it is – chocolate with milk?”
There was outcry when the comment entered the public forum, and the 35-year-old took to her social media channels to send a powerful statement to Nastase.
“It disappoints me to know we live in a society where people like Ilie Nastase can make such racist comments towards myself and my unborn child, and sexist comments against my peers,” she wrote.
“I have said it once, and I’ll say it again; this world has come so far, but ye we have so much further to go. Yes, we have broken down so many barriers – however, there are a plethora more to go. This, or anything else, will not stop me from pouring love, light and positivity into everything I do. I will continue to take a lead and stand up for what is right.
“I am not afraid, unlike you. You see, I am no coward…You may shoot me with your words…you may try to kill me with your hatefulness, but still, like air, I rise.”
Let’s forget about this most upsetting incident, and focus on Serena’s wonderful news!
The world number one tennis champ shared her wonderful news via Snapchat last week, posting a swimsuit selfie showing off her blossoming bump, revealing that she was ’20 weeks’ pregnant.
She went on to confirm her news in another sweet Insta post, written to her precious unborn baby.
“You gave me strength I didn’t know I had. You taught me the true meaning of serenity and peace. I can’t wait to meet you,” she wrote.
“Most importantly, I am so happy to share being number one in the world with you…once again today. From the world’s oldest number one, to the world’s youngest number one – your mommy.”
Serena is a strong and empowered woman, and we know she will not dwell on this controversy.
