Serena Williams Weight-Loss Drug Criticism: Dangerous Example For Athletes

Fans are criticizing retired tennis player Serena Williams for revealing she lost over 30 pounds with the help of a weight-loss drug. The GLP-1 medicine company Ro shared a joint Instagram post on Thursday announcing its partnership with the tennis legend.

In the clip, Williams, 43, appeared to inject herself with the weekly treatment, stating her body “needed” it after having two children.The post immediately sparked backlash, with many expressing disappointment and concern over the message being sent.

Did you know? – GLP-1 medications, like the one Williams used, originally were developed to treat Type 2 diabetes. They work by mimicking a natural hormone that regulates appetite and blood sugar.

Backlash Over Public Proclamation

Social media users voiced their disapproval, with one commenter stating it’s a shame an athlete and influencer is promoting the idea that medication is necessary for health and beauty standards. Another user questioned the statement that the medicine was “needed” after children, feeling it undermined progress in encouraging women to embrace their recovery process.

Another critic called the messaging “so wrong” and “very risky for society” coming from an elite athlete. One fan emphasized that while individuals can choose what to put in their bodies, it shouldn’t be mislabeled as healthcare, calling it disturbing from a former top athlete.

A fifth person suggested that the star was sending a “terrible message to our youth,” particularly young female athletes.

Williams’ Weight Loss Journey

Earlier this week, the 23-time Grand Slam winner confirmed her use of weight-loss injections. “I feel great,” she told People magazine. “I feel really good and healthy. I feel light physically and light mentally.”

Pro tip: – Weight loss medications are most effective when combined with lifestyle changes,including a balanced diet and regular exercise.Consult a healthcare professional before starting any new weight loss regimen.

williams explained that her weight struggles began in 2017, following the birth of her eldest daughter, Alexis Olympia, via emergency C-section. “I never was able to get to the weight I needed to be, no matter what I did, no matter how much I trained,” she said.

“It was crazy because I’d never been in a place like that in my life where I worked so hard, ate so healthy and could never get down to where I needed to be at,” she added. The four-time Olympic gold medalist stated she researched Ro and decided to start the weekly injections six months after her second daughter, Adira, was born in August 2023.

Reader question: – Do you think athletes have a obligation to be transparent about all methods they use to enhance performance or achieve physical goals? What are your thoughts?