Serena Williams has expressed her support for Meghan Markle following her revealing interview with Oprah Winfrey, during which the Duchess of Sussex disclosed her experiences with racism.
The tennis champion has taken a stand in defense of her friend, who, along with Prince Harry, accused the British royal family of racist behavior in a headline-making interview.
The highly anticipated interview, conducted by Oprah Winfrey, delved into various aspects of Meghan and Harry's departure from royal duties.
Notably, the couple addressed concerns within the royal family about the potential skin tone of their son, Archie. The allegations extended to Prince Charles, Kate Middleton, and Queen Elizabeth II.
In the wake of this impactful interview, Serena Williams, a close and longtime friend of Meghan Markle, has publicly shown her support. Using her official Twitter account, Williams shared a heartfelt message in defense of Meghan, emphasizing her friend's selfless nature and resilience in the face of adversity.
"As a 23-time Grand Slam winner, I have experienced firsthand the racism perpetuated by institutions and the media to vilify women," Williams stated, drawing parallels between her own experiences and those of Meghan. She emphasized the importance of debunking baseless gossip and countering the damaging effects of systemic oppression on mental health.
In addition to addressing Meghan's past struggles, Williams looked towards the future, referencing Meghan and Harry's announcement of expecting a baby girl. The tennis star expressed her desire for a society driven by respect for all, highlighting the importance of fostering an environment based on love, joy, peace, kindness, faith, softness, and self-control.
The friendship between Serena Williams and Meghan Markle dates back several years to a charity match in 2014. The tennis player and her husband, Alexis Ohanian, were invited to Meghan and Harry's wedding, showcasing the depth of their bond. Despite the media attention surrounding Meghan, Williams has maintained a steadfast loyalty, avoiding negative news and focusing on being a supportive friend during both challenging and joyful times.