Serena Williams recently took to social media to address the negative rumors about her, speaking out personally to clear the air. In an Instagram makeup tutorial posted on Monday, December 2, 2024, the 43-year-old tennis legend responded to accusations of skin bleaching.

She explained, "I put just that neutral color, that is actually my skin color, and no, for you haters out there, I do not bleach my skin." Serena added, "There is a thing called sunlight, and in that sunlight, you get different colors." She clarified that the rumors began after she wore stage makeup while volunteering at her daughter's school play.

The 23-time Grand Slam winner went on to call out the absurdity of the speculation, saying, "I'm calling you out on it because it is ridiculous that everyone is like, 'Oh, she bleaches her skin.' I am a dark black woman, and I love who I am, and I love how I look." Serena acknowledged that while she doesn’t participate in skin bleaching, she respects others' personal choices, adding, "If people do it, that's their thing and they have every opportunity. I don't judge." She ended the segment by saying, "So, can we just kinda clear that up?"

The video quickly gained support from her fans, who shared their thoughts on X (formerly known as Twitter). One user praised Serena, saying, "Serena Williams shutting down these rumors with confidence! She's always been a symbol of strength and authenticity." Another fan remarked, "Stupid rumors anyway," while a third added, "They'll hate her no matter what she does or says."

Serena has always been open about her journey, especially when it comes to body image and self-care. Earlier in 2024, she shared a post about a radio-frequency procedure she underwent to treat post-baby scars on her stomach. In the video, she shared how happy she was with the results, writing, "I am getting a type of radio frequency on my tummy, and the results have been amazing."

The retired tennis star, who shares two daughters—Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr., 7, and Adira River Ohanian, 1—with her husband Alexis Ohanian, has become a vocal advocate for self-love and authenticity. The couple, who met in 2015, married in New Orleans on November 16, 2017.

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(via Serena Williams , Access Hollywood)