PARIS, FRANCE – JULY 25: Serena Williams attends ‘Prelude to the Olympics’ at Fondation Louis Vuitton on July 25, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Arnold Jerocki/Getty Images for LVMH x Vogue x NBC)
As a Black journalist, I know the deep-rooted pain and complexity behind skin tone discussions in our community. Serena Williams just delivered a masterclass in self-affirmation and calling out colorism that deserves our full attention.
During an Instagram Live makeup tutorial for her Wyn Beauty brand, Serena did more than just apply cosmetics—she confronted harmful rumors head-on. “I’m a dark, Black woman, and I love who I am, and I love how I look,” she declared, sending a powerful message that resonates far beyond makeup.
Serena Williams shuts down rumors, firmly stating she does NOT bleach her skin. pic.twitter.com/E2WtPA8MaF
— Daily Loud (@DailyLoud) December 3, 2024
Let’s be clear: This isn’t just about skin color. This is about the persistent, toxic narrative that has plagued Black women for generations—the notion that lighter skin is somehow more desirable or acceptable. Serena’s response was a direct challenge to those deeply ingrained, destructive beliefs.
“There is a thing called sunlight, and in that sunlight, you get different colors,” she explained, shutting down the baseless speculation about skin bleaching. Her matter-of-fact tone speaks volumes about her confidence and self-assuredness.
But what’s most powerful is her nuanced approach. She didn’t condemn those who might choose to alter their appearance. “If people do it, that’s their thing, and they have every opportunity and they should. I don’t judge,” she said—a statement that shows remarkable grace and understanding.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 06: Serena Williams attends The 2024 Met Gala Celebrating “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion” at The Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 06, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images)
This isn’t just Serena Williams responding to rumors. This is a moment of cultural significance. As a Black woman who has consistently broken barriers in tennis and beyond, she understands the weight of representation. Every statement she makes is a statement for our community.
Her openness about body image and self-care is equally important. Earlier this year, she candidly shared her journey of body acceptance after childbirth, showing vulnerability while maintaining absolute strength. When she discussed getting a radio frequency treatment and admitted to being self-conscious about her stomach, she humanized the post-motherhood experience for countless Black women.
“My body will never be the same, but neither will I,” she wrote—a statement that is both personal and profoundly universal.
Serena Williams continues to be more than an athlete. She’s a cultural icon who uses her platform to challenge narratives, celebrate Black beauty in all its diversity, and affirm self-love.
To the “haters” she called out: She sees you, and she’s not here for your nonsense.
This is why Serena remains a beacon of strength, authenticity, and unapologetic Black excellence.
