‘Neck’ level challenge: Tennis icon shares shocking hospital bed update after surgery

A sports icon has recently undergone a medical procedure to address a health issue, causing a wave of concern and support from fans worldwide.

This unexpected development has put the spotlight on the athlete's health and recovery, as admirers eagerly await updates.

Known for their resilience and determination, the sports star's journey through this health challenge is a reminder of the physical demands placed on elite athletes.


Serena Williams, the tennis icon who has inspired millions with her prowess on the court, recently shared a personal health update.

The 43-year-old legend underwent surgery to remove a benign branchial cyst from her neck, an ordeal she bravely shared from her hospital bed.

She shared an update from her hospital bed, insisting that ‘all is OK’.


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Tennis legend Serena Williams underwent surgery to remove a benign branchial cyst from her neck. Credit: Tiktok / Serenawilliams


The cyst, described by Williams as ‘the size of a small grapefruit’, was initially discovered back in May.

At that time, an MRI exam revealed that the removal of the cyst was optional. Williams initially chose not to have it removed, ‘but it kept growing’, so she decided to undergo further tests.


‘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,’ Williams said in a different post.

‘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 (removed), but it kept growing. I decided to get more tests, and three tests 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. I still made it to American Doll with Olympia as promised. And yes, all is OK,’ she reiterated.


Despite her health scare, Williams has remained active off the court. She was seen enjoying a Green Day concert in Los Angeles, jogging energetically among fellow fans, showing no outward signs of her recent medical challenge.

Her time away from tennis has been filled with family moments with her husband, Alexis Ohanian, and their two daughters (7), Olympia and Adira (1).

Williams, who turned 43 in September, has been on a two-year hiatus from professional tennis following her emotional farewell at the 2022 US Open.

Her illustrious career boasts 23 Grand Slam singles titles, just one shy of Margaret Court's record.

Williams' dominance in the sport is marked by a remarkable run from the 2002 French Open to the 2023 Australian Open, during which she won all four singles Grand Slam titles and defeated her sister Venus in every final.

The 23-time Grand Slam champion made a stylish return to the US Open as a spectator last month, donning a throwback denim skirt reminiscent of her playing days.

Her legacy as one of the greatest tennis players of all time is undisputed, with a career that saw her hold the WTA's No. 1 women's ranking for an impressive 319 weeks.


As Serena Williams focuses on her recovery after a recent medical procedure, it's worth recalling her influential presence beyond the tennis court.

In 2022, she joined forces with Prince Harry for a virtual summit, showcasing her commitment to making a difference off the court as well.

This collaboration highlighted her multifaceted role as an athlete, advocate, and inspirational figure, a testament to her enduring impact in various arenas.
Key Takeaways
  • Tennis legend Serena Williams has had a benign branchial cyst removed from her neck.
  • Williams shared an update from a hospital bed and stated that she is recovering and that health always comes first.
  • The cyst was ‘the size of a small grapefruit’, and Williams decided to have it surgically removed after doctors advised her to do so.
  • Despite her health issues, Williams has been active and visible at events such as hosting the ESPYS and attending a Green Day concert.
Members, let's take a moment to send our thoughts to Serena Williams as she recovers from her surgery. Have you or someone you know faced a similar health challenge? How did you navigate the uncertainty and the decisions that came with it? Share your stories and words of encouragement in the comments below. Let's celebrate the strength it takes to prioritise health and make tough choices, just as Serena has shown us with her brave battle.
 
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Look, I'm sorry, but why is it that when someone 'famous' has a minor medical condition, everyone says how brave they are and how we must send messages of support and good will.

It's highly likely that the rest of us mere mortals would have this done as a day procedure and then go home and get tea on the table.

I'll admit I've never been a fan of this woman since she rubbished Margaret Court for her views, but there are so many decent, hard working people out there who have much worse health problems than Ms Williams. They're the brave ones. Let's send them our strength and love.
 
This is not a major procedure. I've had a total thyroidectomy and a left inferior parathyroidectomy for cancer and was back to normal in a few days. The post-op pain was just like having a viral sore throat and only required panadol now and then.
 
She can blame herself for letting it grow so big before having it removed.....how big is a small grapefruit anyway? And surely she would have had a local anesthetic to provide pain relief.....so why the big crying face? Well at least she didn't throw her tennis racquet at the doctor who cut it out so that's a positive I guess....wuss !!
 
i am more interested in the members on sdc than this person. i am also sick of reading about these kind of people because i bet they charge for their interview. guess what i have just got home from a pet scan and a bone marrow. over two days.. it doesn't matter who you are when it comes to medicine. we are LL THE SAME.
 
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i am more interested in the members on sdc than this person. i am also sick of reading about these kind of people because i bet they charge for their interview. guess what i have just got home from a pet scan and a bone marrow. over two days.. it doesn't matter who you are when it comes to medicine. we are LL THE SAME.
Wish you good news....keep us informed, if you want to Jest.(y)
 
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