Introduction
In 2025, Serena Williams continues to captivate global audiences—not just for her unmatched legacy on the tennis court, but also for her relatable journey through motherhood, body image, and wellness. From the trending “Barbie effect” tied to husband Alexis Ohanian, heartfelt appearances on Today, to her candid weight-loss journey involving a GLP-1 medication like Ozempic, her narrative bridges pop culture, personal growth, and health transparency.
1. The “Barbie” Buzz & Alexis Ohanian
A Barbie-Ken Moment
When Greta Gerwig’s Barbie film was released, complete with its captivating tagline “She’s everything, he’s just Ken,” fans playfully cast celebrity couples in this mold. Serena Williams and Alexis Ohanian were among those compared. Ohanian’s light-hearted response? He reshared the comparison on Instagram and laughed it off as fans rallied behind him, highlighting his strong qualities as a husband and father—not a mere accessory.
A Positive Role Model in the Barbie Lineup
Further stirring nostalgia and empowerment, Mattel introduced a Role Model Barbie honoring Venus Williams. Alexis Ohanian enthusiastically vowed to purchase the doll for their daughters, Olympia and Adira River, and even joked about getting some graded—celebrating both legacy and representation.
Takeaway: These Barbie-related moments underscore the Williams-Ohanian family’s influence beyond sport—embracing powerful cultural symbols while staying grounded in familial bonds.
2. Serena on the Today Show: Strength, Balance, & Support
A Gym Photo, A Husband’s Pride
During a July 2025 appearance on Today, Alexis Ohanian was asked about Serena’s jaw-dropping workout selfies. He joked that he wasn’t in competition with her—she’s a phenomenal athlete—but admitted she doesn’t overly emphasize strength training, giving him “a couple of core disciplines” left. What struck viewers even more was his admiration for her role as a mother—saying she’s “an even greater mom to our daughters” and that family, not accolades, brings her the most joy.
Interpretation: This glimpse into their dynamic shows a modern partnership grounded in mutual respect—with Serena excelling across sports, business, motherhood, and WYN Beauty, her beauty brand launched in 2024.
3. Ozempic & GLP-1: Serena’s Candid Weight-Loss Journey
From Speculation to Disclosure
Serena’s followers noticed her trim figure in late 2024, igniting speculation that she’d used Ozempic or similar weight-loss medications. Fans voiced concern, curiosity, and defense in equal measure. Some suspected Ozempic; others applauded her fitness efforts and outfits.
Transparency through Interviews
By August 2025, Serena openly shared her weight-loss journey—revealing she had lost over 31 lbs with the help of a GLP-1 medication (like Ozempic) after struggling with postpartum weight following the births of her daughters in 2017 and 2023. Starting treatment in early 2024 via the healthcare provider Ro, she emphasized that she never abandoned her dedication to healthy eating and consistent workouts—GLP-1s were a tool, not a shortcut.
In an in-depth ELLE interview, she clarified she uses Zepbound (a GLP-1) through Ro, where she serves as an ambassador. She stressed GLP-1s helped her body in ways pure willpower could not, noting the stigma surrounding these medications and emphasizing that weight loss is deeply personal. Serena Williams Ozempic.
Her Message on Stigma and Body Positivity
Serena wants her story to reshape how we perceive weight-loss journeys—especially for women, mothers, and those who face public scrutiny. Despite her achievements, she had works toward her goals didn’t move the needle. GLP-1 offered that final push. But loss didn’t change her confidence or self-image. She now advocates loving oneself at any size and being mindful of physical health, comfort, and individual needs rather than societal standards.
4. Synthesizing It All: A Modern Legacy of Empowerment
Serena Williams’ 2025 narrative masterfully weaves:
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Cultural resonance: Barbie comparisons and dolls as symbols of representation.
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Partnership admiration: Alexis Ohanian’s proud reflections underscore love and equality in their marriage.
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Transparency and health advocacy: Serena uses her platform to normalize medical support, wellness, and body positivity.
Whether it’s a playful Barbie moment, praise on Today, or a heartfelt revelation about GLP-1, Serena stands tall as a multidimensional icon—still challenging norms, embracing parenthood, and redefining strength. Serena Williams Ozempic.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
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Why was Serena Williams compared to Barbie and Alexis to Ken?
Because of the trending Barbie tagline—“she’s everything, he’s just Ken”—fans jokingly applied it to celebrity couples where the woman stands out. Alexis responded with humor, and fans defended him as more than a “Ken.” -
What is the “Role Model Barbie” tied to Venus Williams?
In celebration of Barbie’s anniversary, Mattel released a Role Model Barbie honoring Venus Williams. Alexis Ohanian plans to gift one to each daughter, embracing representation. -
How did Alexis Ohanian react to Serena’s gym photos on the Today Show?
He joked it wasn’t a competition, praising her athleticism but noting she doesn’t focus heavily on strength training. More importantly, he celebrated her motherhood and role as a businesswoman. -
Has Serena Williams used Ozempic or other weight-loss drugs?
Yes—she has openly said she used a GLP-1 medication (specifically Zepbound via Ro) post-breastfeeding in 2024, leading to a 31-pound weight loss—but only after maintaining healthy habits. She frames it as a personal health choice, not a shortcut. -
What message does Serena want to share about GLP-1s?
She aims to remove stigma, encourage open dialogue, and show that even elite athletes may need medical support. Her story frames wellness as nuanced—not solely tied to willpower or appearance.
