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WATCH: Serena Williams, Alexis Ohanian, and Daughter Olympia Run in 5K Race for Noble Cause

Published 10/31/2021, 11:24 PM EDT

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23-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams is known to the world as one of the most ferocious competitors in tennis. But beyond the courts, she is a thoroughly compassionate soul and a real friend. That is why she kept her word and joined Team Esther and ran at the LA Cancer Challenge 5K in UCLA.

Previously, Serena had broken down in tears when she revealed that her friend and physiotherapist, Dr. Esther Lee, was battling pancreatic cancer. She then urged people to join her in the walk-run to do their part in finding the cure. Serena completed the run with her husband Alexis Ohanian and three-year-old daughter Olympia.

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She had said, “My friend Esther is in treatment for pancreatic cancer. I’ve joined Team Esther for the LA Cancer Challenge 5K on October 31st to raise awareness and do my part to help find a cure.” Serena also had mentioned that the benefits would go to Hirshberg Foundation.

Serena Williams keeps her word and takes the LA Cancer Challenge 5K for her physiotherapist, Dr. Esther Lee

Along with Serena Williams, the retired American tennis legend Pam Shriver also took part in the good cause. She then filmed Serena and Olympia crossing the finish line and even got a high-five from the tennis queen.

Shriver tweeted, “Serena Williams showing her commitment to a special person, Esther Lee, and to being of service by showing up in person for the 5K race/walk today at UCLA. Because Serena had her entire family with her, I was able to finish ahead of the goat.” (Goat is an acronym for Greatest Of All Time)

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Now, the 40-year-old and all the other participants have completed a big step towards finding the cure. Hopefully, Esther Lee will battle past these trying times and regain all the health in the world.

Where will Serena play next?

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Since Wimbledon 2021, where she got injured and retired from the opening round, Serena hasn’t returned to the court. Notably, she is in the recovery of her knee.

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If things go right, the four-time Olympics gold medalist will be ready in time for the Australian Open next year. However, there has been no indication on whether she will play in Melbourne or not.

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Above all, Serena’s contribution to tennis and beyond the courts will forever remain legendary. Hence, fans all over the world hope she continues to keep inspiring people for many more years to come.

Watch this story: Mother-Daughter Bond: 15 Times Serena Williams and Olympia Melted Hearts with Twinning Moments

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Written by:

Purav Joshi

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Purav Joshi is a Senior Tennis author at EssentiallySports. Having a degree in Films, Television and Media Production, he guided his passion for writing and journalism into the sport of aces and rallies. With over 2 years of experience as a copywriter, Purav has authored over 1000 tennis articles.
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