Serena Williams Avoids Political Pitfalls in Interview

Tennis legend Serena Williams deftly sidestepped a question about her connection to former President Donald Trump in a recent interview with the New York Times. Williams, who is set to retire after the US Open, discussed various topics, including her relationship with tennis and her transition to life after retirement.

Serena Williams, the 23-time Grand Slam champion who is set to retire after the upcoming US Open, faced a potentially awkward question during a recent interview with the New York Times. Co-host David Marchese inquired about Williams' connection to former President Donald Trump, which was revealed during Trump's criminal trial in May. However, Williams swiftly and humorously deflected the question.

"I mean, is this what this interview is about?" Williams responded with a laugh when asked whether she and Trump spoke frequently. "Really?"

Serena Williams Avoids Political Pitfalls in Interview

Williams then turned the tables, pointing out that she has conversed with several presidents throughout her life, including Ronald Reagan, Barack Obama, and Bill and Hillary Clinton.

"I talk to a lot of presidents," Williams emphasized. "I spoke to Barack, I spoke to the Clintons. I spoke to every president since I've been alive, including Ronald Reagan, I'll have you know."

Serena Williams Avoids Political Pitfalls in Interview

Marchese pressed Williams about the reasons behind these presidential conversations, but she declined to elaborate. "I don't know, I'm not going to go there," she said with another laugh.

The interview shifted back to Williams' personal life and her transition to retirement. Williams expressed her continued love for tennis and the difficulty of adjusting to a life beyond the court.

Serena Williams Avoids Political Pitfalls in Interview

"It's a life I've never experienced," she explained. "You have to understand: For my entire life, since I can remember, it's been about one thing. I don't know anything else. And so this is all new to me. It's like a whole new career."

Despite her initial hesitation, Williams admitted that she misses playing tennis. "I didn't realize that I would have such an amazing relationship with tennis after it was all said and done," she said. "It's a good miss. It's like a nostalgia. I love that."

Williams also spoke about motherhood and the challenges of balancing her family life with her newfound freedom. "It's hard," she said. "I'm still figuring it out. I'm still trying to find my way."

However, Williams expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to embrace a new chapter in her life. "I'm just trying to enjoy this time with my daughter," she said. "I'm trying to be present and be in the moment."

Williams' interview with the New York Times showcased her ability to navigate difficult questions with grace and humor. While she avoided delving into political matters, she shared her insights on her personal life and her evolving relationship with the sport that made her an icon.