“I love reading, but ever since I had Olympia, I just don’t even think I’ve read a book,” Serena Williams once confessed in a heartfelt interview with ESSENCE magazine. The tennis icon, who retired in 2022 after over two decades of dominance, opened up about how motherhood and entrepreneurship have pulled her away from her beloved books. “But I do love reading,” the icon added, expressing a deep longing for the kind of storytelling that bridges emotion between author and reader. Life may have shifted, but the reader in Serena never left! And recently, the 23-time Grand Slam champion seems to have rekindled that literary flame, diving into a new favorite and recommending a powerful read, penned by none other than Melinda French Gates! Which book, you ask?

Serena Williams’ love for books runs deep, both as a reader and now as a writer. In 2022, she debuted as a children’s author with The Adventures of Qai Qai, inspired by her desire to create more diverse dolls and stories for young readers. The character, Qai Qai, became a social media sensation and motivational symbol, created in partnership with the Invisible Universe.

In 2023, the 43-year-old signed a two-book deal with Random House. The first, an intimate memoir, will explore her journey from childhood to tennis stardom, offering raw insights into her life behind the spotlight. The second promises to be an empowering guide drawn from her experiences as a trailblazing entrepreneur, philanthropist, and champion for young women beyond the court. And now, as she embraces life beyond the court, she’s been gifted another moment of reading, one where she immerses herself in words that celebrate life, transformation, and timeless meaning.

A couple of moments ago, Serena Williams took to her IG story to share a heartfelt moment with her followers. In a candid video, she showcased a book titled The Next Day, written by none other than Melinda French Gates. The book’s cover highlights themes of “Transition, Change and Moving Forward,” something that resonated with Serena. In her own words, she shared, “This is such a great book by Melinda Gates. Talking about the next day, moving forward, and change. She never expected to write a book like this. So it’s a very timely book and I highly recommend you to check it out. You know I love my books, and thanks to Melinda sent it out.”

Beyond reading, Serena Williams has long been involved in writing as well. In 2005, she teamed up with her sister Venus Williams and Hilary Beard to co-author Venus & Serena: Serving From The Hip: 10 Rules For Living, Loving and Winning. The book offered readers an inspirational guide built around life lessons from the tennis superstars. 4 years later, in 2009, she released her autobiography, On the Line, which gave an in-depth look into her career, personal struggles, and triumphs.

And as Serena now enjoys her life post-tennis, her legacy continues to inspire! Nevertheless, outside of the court, she has been diligently working on her entrepreneurial endeavors. Most recently, she expressed her support for a Hollywood TV star’s venture.

Serena Williams shows support for her investment pick as Khloé Kardashian’s ‘Khloud’ is up for grabs

Serena Williams has always celebrated sisterhood and style, and fans fondly remember when she said, “I got some goodies from Good American. Thanks, Khloe. I love this dress,” after receiving a pink tank maxi dress and wide-leg sweatpants from Khloé Kardashian’s fashion line. Their friendship has consistently been a powerful mix of glam, support, and girl power. 

Recently, their bond has reached new heights! The icon is not just cheering from the sidelines, she’s invested. Through her venture capital firm, Serena Ventures, the 23-time GS champion has backed Khloé’s newest business endeavor, Khloud. This latest collaboration between friends blends snacking and entrepreneurship with a dash of star power.

A couple of days ago, Serena took to IG to celebrate Khloé’s new venture. She posted a photo of the vibrant “Khloud Protein Popcorn” lineup and added a caption that read, “I am so ready for this,” while tagging both the brand and Khloé. In another story, Serena re-shared Khloé’s announcement: “On Khloud nine with the launch of all new Khloud Protein Popcorn 🥰 Now available in-stores and online at Target.com.”

Khloé Kardashian’s company, Khloud, officially launched its first product, a protein-rich popcorn, on April 29. The snack combines whole-grain corn with “Khloud Dust,” a mix of milk protein and seasonings. It’s now available at Target and through Khloud’s official website. 

As the 43-year-old continues to thrive off the court with bold ventures and brand-building, her journey proves she’s not only a champion in sport but in life as well. Speaking of life, have you read Melinda Gates’ The Next Day yet? If so, we’d love to hear your thoughts!