One year after undergoing a critical health procedure, Venus Williams has opened up about her journey back to fitness and the emotional challenges that came with it.
A Difficult Diagnosis
In July 2024, Williams underwent a myomectomy, a surgery to remove uterine fibroids. The procedure was performed by Dr. Tara Shirazian at NYU Langone. Before the surgery, Williams suffered from severe symptoms including anemia, excessive bleeding, and chronic pain that impacted her career.
“I was told I was inoperable. I was told I could bleed to death on the table,” she wrote on Instagram. “I was misdiagnosed and untreated for years.”
Support from Loved Ones
Venus thanked her fiancé Andrea Preti for standing by her side. She shared a photo from her hospital bed, holding his hand, calling him a key support in helping her make the decision.
She also praised her sister Isha Price for taking care of her during recovery. She tagged Serena Williams and Lyndrea Price as part of her support system during that difficult phase.
Recovery and Return to Tennis
After the operation, Williams slowly returned to training. “I wasn’t even in my right mind, trying to train after surgery,” she admitted. Despite the physical and emotional toll, she made a comeback at the DC Open this year, where she lost in the second round.
Looking Ahead to US Open
Now, she is eyeing the US Open as her next big event. Though her return in Washington was short-lived, Williams feels optimistic.
“This journey taught me a lot,” she said. “I’m grateful to be back.”
A Message to Other Women
Through her post, Venus encouraged other women to advocate for their health. She said she shared her experience to raise awareness about fibroids and to let others know they are not alone.
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