Serena Williams Recalls Chilling Threats Faced During Her Career: “I Was Playing in Fear”

 In a rare and emotional moment during a live panel at the Women’s Sports Empowerment Summit this week, tennis legend Serena Williams opened up about some of the most terrifying threats she received during her decades-long career — moments she says continue to haunt her to this day.

Speaking candidly in front of a packed audience, Williams reflected on the darker side of her journey to becoming one of the most celebrated athletes in history. While the 23-time Grand Slam champion is often seen as a symbol of strength and resilience, she admitted there were moments when fear overshadowed everything — even her love for the game.

“There were matches where I wasn’t just thinking about winning,” she said, her voice faltering slightly. “I was thinking, ‘Will I be safe when I walk off this court?’”

Williams revealed that she received several serious threats during her career — some racially charged, others of a violent or stalker-like nature. Though many were never made public, she confirmed that multiple incidents required increased security at tournaments, especially during her early years when backlash against her success and identity as a powerful Black woman in a traditionally white-dominated sport was particularly intense.

What struck the audience most was Williams’ facial expression — not one of anger or defiance, but of lingering fear.

“Even now, just talking about it… I feel it in my chest,” she admitted, placing a hand over her heart. “There’s a certain kind of silence in the crowd when you feel like you’re being watched for the wrong reasons. And that never really leaves you.”

Williams did not disclose specific individuals or events, citing ongoing privacy concerns and past trauma, but she emphasized that the mental toll was real — and long-lasting.

Her vulnerability sparked a standing ovation and ignited a larger conversation about athlete safety, especially for women and people of color. Other athletes present at the summit praised her courage in speaking out, including gymnast Simone Biles and soccer star Megan Rapinoe.

Biles, who joined her onstage, added:

“What Serena just did — sharing that fear — is powerful. Because people see us as invincible. But we’re human. And safety should never be a luxury.”

Williams ended her segment with a powerful message to young athletes:

“You don’t have to stay silent. You don’t owe the world your peace just to prove you’re strong.”

The moment served as a stark reminder that behind the trophies and headlines, even icons like Serena Williams carry invisible scars. And while her achievements have paved the way for countless others, she made clear that the road was never without shadows.