“Health always comes first,” Serena Williams emphasized this morning after missing Rafael Nadal’s surprising retirement announcement and the Woman of the Year awards. The American tennis star shared an important update regarding her recent health issues, which have escalated to a concerning level.

Earlier this year in May, the 24-time Major winner underwent an MRI for a lump discovered in her neck. This birth defect, known medically as a brachial cyst, was determined by her doctors to pose no immediate threat. However, complications arose as the lump continued to grow, prompting Williams to undergo multiple tests, including a biopsy.

Fortunately, the former World No. 1 confirmed that no life-threatening results were found. Nevertheless, she was advised to undergo a minor surgery to remove the birth defect. Williams’ proactive approach highlights her commitment to prioritizing her health above all else.

She also uploaded a video on TikTok, wherein she detailed and showcased the medical scrutiny that came out of the cyst’s surgical removal. She wrote, “Back in May I found a lump showing on my neck. I immediately went to the doc got a MRI and was told I have a brachial cyst. Have you ever heard of that?”

“They said I don’t need to get it removed if I don’t want. So I did not get it, but it kept growing. I decided to get more test and 3 test and one biopsy later everything is still negative but doctors advised I get it removed asap because it was the size of a small grapefruit and it could get infected or worse leak. So this is me removing it. I am feeling so grateful, and fortunate everything worked out, and most of all I’m healthy.”

However, amid her medical concerns, the Compton native unknowingly skipped out on Spaniard Rafael Nadal’s long-drawn retirement news  – stemming from recurring injuries. Taken up by surprise, Williams said: “So many things I missed like @glamourmag Woman of the Year awards, @RafaelNadal retirement and I am still recovering, but getting better. Health always comes first.” Her heartfelt acknowledgment made sense. After all, the Spanish legend praised Williams’ stellar legacy.

Rafael Nadal hailed Serena Williams as the “greatest sportsperson of all time”

Serena Williams has truly dominated an era of the WTA with her remarkable athleticism and captivating on-court performances. With a record of 23 Grand Slam titles and numerous tour-level victories, the American superstar has now chosen to embark on a life outside of competitive tennis. After announcing her retirement at the US Open in 2022, her impressive legacy was met with admiration, including heartfelt words from Rafael Nadal.

In an interview, Nadal praised Williams’ extraordinary achievements, candidly declaring her the “greatest sportsperson of all time.” He expressed his gratitude for having shared the tour with her, stating, “She is one of the greatest sports [people] of all time. I feel lucky to share a tour for a long period of time with her. Of course, from a selfish point of view, it’s sad that she’s leaving the tour, but on the other hand, we can’t thank her enough for all the things that she did for our sport.”

As Nadal steps away and Williams faces her own health challenges, fans are eager to hear her reflections on Nadal’s remarkable journey through the ATP Tour.