Serena Williams on motherhood struggles: it’s OK to have a rough day

Serena Williams has revealed that her struggles with “postpartum emotions” led to her withdrawal from this week’s Rogers Cup in Canada.

The 36-year-old gave birth to her first child, daughter Alexis Olympia, in September 2017 and returned to the tennis court earlier this year.

The BBC reports that the American, a 23-time Grand Slam singles winner, cited “personal reasons” for not playing in Canada. After suffering the heaviest defeat of her career last week Williams explained on social media that she felt “in a funk” and was “not a good mom”.

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She wrote on Instagram: “Last week was not easy for me. Not only was I accepting some tough personal stuff, but I just was in a funk. Mostly, I felt like I was not a good mom.

“I read several articles that said postpartum emotions can last up to three years if not dealt with. I like communication best. Talking things through with my mom, my sisters, my friends let me know that my feelings are totally normal.

“It’s totally normal to feel like I’m not doing enough for my baby. Most of you moms deal with the same thing. I’m here to say: if you are having a rough day or week - it’s OK - I am, too!”