Despite all the hate and disrespect she has suffered in her professional career, Serena Williams has been a pure advocate of equality for women. Moreover, she had also taken steps in the field of gender equality by teaming up with huge names across various bailiwicks.

The American has stood strong and motivated numerous young tennis players who can be crucial parts of the coming generations. From Indian Wells in 2001 to being called a guy, Serena Williams has always given a befitting reply to all the hate with the racket.

One such incident took place when the American henceforth stated that she has been acing all the battles at the tennis court with her confidence and motivation. During an interview with TIME, she revealed that she feels that the world can’t decide what is beautiful and what’s not. Moreover, they can’t apply unrealistic beauty standards to anyone.

“Giving them that confidence, that motivation is something that has literally never been done. You don’t let the world decide beauty. And me being thicker or whatever, I mean, curves are popular now. Butts are popular. I’m trying to lose mine, and people are trying to get mine.” Williams said.

Williams has been blessed with a physique that helps her get an upper hand over her opponents. Nevertheless, naysayers have always criticized her for the way she looks.

Serena Williams’ bold message to her fans who are insecure about their appearances While being an active gender equality advocate, Serena Williams has also been a role model for her fans all around the world. Young tennis players glorify her with all their hearts and the ones who have faced her on the court, also acquire a lot of praise for her.

Later in the interview, the American also sent a message to all of her fans who are insecure about the way they look. She said that people can feel her confidence because she has always told “Be Black and be proud”.

Serena Williams (Credits: Sporting News and CNN) “A lot of people feel they’re not pretty or they’re not cute enough because their skin is dark…I think people could feel my confidence because I was always told, you look great. Be Black and be proud. Confidence and self-belief. And teaching other Black kids, in particular Black girls, they can do it too.” Williams concluded.

Williams suffered a lot of disrespect during her initial days because of her race. Naysayers often used to direct racial slurs and opprobrium comments at her as well as her family. However, the 23-time Grand Slam winner has overcome all the odds and has emerged as one of the greatest names in the history of tennis.