Serena Williams admitted adjusting to a life outside of tennis was pretty challenging, but also underlined that she was "fortunate" to have such a career.
After retiring injured in the 2021 Wimbledon first round, Williams was out for a year before making a surprise return in Eastbourne doubles 12 months later. The American made her singles return at Wimbledon, where she was beaten by Harmony Tan in the first round.
Then, Williams had some major news to share - she announced that she would be putting an end to her career after the 2022 US Open. The former 23-time Grand Slam champion reached the US Open third round before seeing her astonishing career end with a three-set third-round loss to Ajla Tomljanovic.
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No matter how prepared you are to retire, and particularly from doing something every day at such a high level, its hard. I really prepped myself the best way I could, but its something thats still a little difficult, the 44-year-old told Porter.
Williams' family is now her No. 1 priority
Half a year after retiring, Williams announced her second pregnancy. And in the summer of 2023, Williams welcomed her second child, a baby girl Adira. Nowadays, the former top-ranked WTA player enjoys being around her family.
I feel fortunate that Ive had a career and that I dont have to do what most people do. Im very lucky. I put in the hard work, like we all are doing, but I did it a little bit earlier. So, I think thats really working in my favor. And [now I can] just put my kids first. I want to be around my family. Im cooking every night that Im home. Im home 29 nights a month Sometimes Ill fly to New York, do what I need to do, fly back and be home in time for dinner," the American tennis legend explained.
