I Was Told I Could Bleed to Death”: Venus Williams Opens Up About Her 30-Year Fibroids Journey

Tennis legend Venus Williams has never shied away from a challenge—on or off the court.

But in a recent Instagram post, she revealed that one of the toughest battles of her life wasn’t on the tennis court, but in the operating room. The 44-year-old star opened up about her three-decade struggle with uterine fibroids, a condition that left her in constant pain, exhausted, and sometimes fearing for her life.

A Silent Struggle

For years, Venus endured heavy bleeding, severe pelvic pain, and anemia—symptoms that were often brushed aside or misdiagnosed. She explained that some doctors dismissed her concerns, telling her that what she was experiencing was “normal.” But the reality was far from it. “I was told I could bleed to death,” Venus shared, reflecting on the terrifying warnings she received as her condition worsened.

The Life-Changing Surgery

In July 2024, Venus made the decision to undergo an open myomectomy, a major surgery to remove fibroids while preserving her uterus. She described the moment before the procedure as one she would never forget—her surgeon holding her hand as she drifted off to sleep, giving her the courage she needed for the operation.

The recovery wasn’t easy, but the results have been life-changing. Within weeks, Venus said she felt like herself again, with her strength and energy returning. She was even able to step back onto the tennis court with a renewed spirit.

Raising Awareness During Fibroid Awareness Month

Venus chose to share her story publicly during Fibroid Awareness Month, hoping to shine a light on a condition that affects up to 80% of women by age 50 and disproportionately impacts Black women. She urged women to advocate for themselves, seek second opinions, and push for answers when their health concerns aren’t taken seriously.