Serena Williams recently watched the movie “Challengers” and was reminded of the real world of competitive tennis, especially when it comes to the dynamic between players and their significant others. She compared the relationship between the characters in the movie to that of tennis icon Roger Federer and his wife Mirka, noting how some male players rely heavily on their partners for support. Serena reflected on her own codependent relationship with her sister Venus at the start of their careers and emphasized the isolation that top players often experience.
While Serena empathized with some of the struggles portrayed in the movie, she found the character of Tashi to be mean. She explained the challenges that come with being a competitive athlete and the difficult decisions that have to be made in personal relationships. Serena herself faced these challenges when deciding to retire from tennis in 2022 to focus on her family. She noted the taboo surrounding conversations about moving on from the sport and expressed her reluctance to admit the need for a transition.
Serena acknowledged her evolution away from tennis and towards other important aspects of her life, including family and new business ventures. She launched a cosmetics brand, Wyn Beauty, and a wellness brand, Will Perform, offering products tailored for athletes. Meanwhile, Roger Federer, who also recently announced his retirement from tennis due to injuries, thanked his wife Mirka and their four children for their support throughout his career. The couple, who have two sets of twins, have been a source of strength and encouragement for Federer.
As both Serena Williams and Roger Federer transition away from their professional tennis careers, they reflect on the challenges and rewards of the sport. Serena admits the difficulty of choosing between tennis and family, expressing a desire for gender equality in the balance of responsibilities. Federer, on the other hand, recognizes his body’s limitations and the need to listen to its messages about retirement. Both tennis legends have left a lasting impact on the sport and are now focusing on new endeavors and personal priorities. “Challengers” provides a glimpse into the world of elite athletes and the sacrifices they make in pursuit of excellence.
