Serena Williams reveals weight loss with GLP-1 medication
Serena Williams has revealed that she lost 31 pounds after using the GLP-1 weight loss medication Zepbound (tirzepatide), a drug that is gaining attention globally for obesity and metabolic health management.
The 23-time Grand Slam champion opened up about her journey in an interview with Elle and through a sponsored post with telehealth company Ro, where her husband, Alexis Ohanian, serves as an investor and board member.
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Struggles with post-pregnancy weight
After the birth of her second child in 2023, Williams said she quickly lost some weight within the first two weeks but plateaued despite maintaining a strict exercise routine of up to 30,000 steps a day, regular running, and training. She shared that the excess weight led to joint pain when playing tennis.
Turning To Zepbound
In summer 2024, Williams briefly tried a GLP-1 medication before stopping. She restarted treatment in January 2025 through Ro, beginning Zepbound and subsequently losing 31 pounds. She joins other public figures such as Charles Barkley, Oprah Winfrey, and Kelly Clarkson, who have spoken about using GLP-1s for weight management.
Experts highlight that her openness helps challenge stigma. Dr. Scott Isaacs, president of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology, emphasized that obesity is a biological condition, not just a matter of willpower. Similarly, Dr. Rekha B. Kumar, senior medical advisor at Cornell University, noted that high-profile figures like Williams and Oprah demonstrate that these medications are a clinical tool rather than an "easy way out."
Understanding Zepbound (Tirzepatide)
It is FDA-approved for adults with obesity or overweight with related health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and obstructive sleep apnea. Recent trials have also shown benefits for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH/NASH).
Medication, lifestyle, and long-term care
Williams has continued to exercise regularly and eat a balanced diet, emphasizing beans as a protein source. Experts stress that GLP-1 medications like Zepbound work best when combined with healthy eating and physical activity.
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation, with responses varying by dose and individual tolerance. Experts caution that long-term use is often necessary, as stopping the medication may lead to weight regain.
Broader implications
With insurance coverage challenges and increasing demand, experts expect more GLP-based drugs—including oral versions—to become available in the coming years. They see this as a transformative period where obesity is treated as a chronic medical condition with evidence-based therapies.
Williams, who has long faced public scrutiny about her body, said she now values transparency over outside opinions. “For lack of a better way to say it, I don’t really care what people are saying about my body anymore. But what is important to me is transparency,” she told Vogue.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting or stopping any medication.