Why Serena Williams Wears Black Tape on Her Face During Matches
If you‘ve ever watched the legendary Serena Williams compete, you may have noticed small strips of black tape on her cheekbones. These kinesiology tape strips have become Serena‘s signature look. But what‘s the reason behind them?
The black tape helps Serena manage chronic sinus issues that can impact her performance if left unchecked. She suffers from sinus congestion due to allergies and other factors. The tape gently lifts and supports the facial muscles and skin around her sinuses, promoting better circulation and drainage. It provides drug-free relief so Serena can dominate on the court.
Understanding why the greatest female tennis player of all time wears black tape offers insights into the hurdles she‘s overcome on her path to sporting immortality…
Serena‘s Unparalleled Tennis Excellence
Serena Williams‘ statistics and records speak for themselves:
- 23 Grand Slam singles titles – the most in Open Era history
- 319 weeks ranked as the No. 1 female player in the world
- 4 Olympic gold medals in tennis (singles, doubles, mixed doubles)
- The only player ever to win the "Serena Slam" – holding all 4 major titles at once
- Oldest woman to win a Grand Slam singles trophy at age 35 (2017 Australian Open)
| Year | Major Titles Won |
|---|---|
| 1999 | US Open |
| 2002-03 | French Open, Wimbledon, Australian Open, US Open |
| 2009 | Australian Open, Wimbledon |
| 2010 | Australian Open |
| 2012-13 | Wimbledon, US Open, French Open, US Open |
| 2015-16 | Wimbledon, Australian Open, Wimbledon |
She‘s maintained an elite level of play across multiple decades thanks to her athleticism, competitive drive, and versatility across playing surfaces. Even in her early 40s, she continues to be a force and fan favorite.
Serena‘s Meteoric Business Success
In addition to her dominance on the court, Serena has become a one-name icon through savvy business ventures and endorsements. She‘s earned over $260 million in total career earnings so far.
Some highlights of Serena‘s diverse business activities and partnerships include:
- Her own fashion line – S by Serena
- 8-year, $55 million deal with Nike, extended until 2025
- Collaborations with brands like Audemars Piguet, Aston Martin, Gatorade, and more
- Over 20 cameos and roles in TV shows, movies and music videos
- Ownership stakes in companies like SurveyMonkey and the Miami Dolphins
- Founding Serena Ventures in 2014, with a portfolio of 60+ startups
- Releasing her debut book titled “Serena” in 2022
Serena‘s bold style and influential reach have allowed her to build a brand and net worth rivaling top entertainers.
Family Support Through Ups and Downs
While Serena conquered tennis record books, she didn‘t take the traditional path of junior competitions. Instead, she and older sister Venus learned the game from their father Richard Williams on public courts in Compton, California.
Richard drew up a meticulous 78-page plan to develop the girls into champions, teaching them foundational techniques daily starting at ages 4 and 5. Their mother Oracene provided a grounding presence as Richard at times generated controversy with his outspoken promotional tactics.
Serena has widely credited her parents‘ unwavering belief and commitment as the foundation for her and Venus‘ path to greatness. Their tight-knit family banded together through many challenges on and off the court.
In 2003, yet another tragedy struck when Yetunde Price, Serena and Venus‘ beloved older half-sister, was killed in a shooting at just 31 years old. The traumatic loss inspired Serena and Venus to establish foundations supporting community initiatives.
Overcoming Health Struggles
While Serena makes everything look easy with her powerful serve and winning smile, she has quietly battled significant health issues that could have derailed her career.
In 2011, she suffered a pulmonary embolism and hematoma, leading to her diagnosis with a blood clotting disorder. The condition requires Serena to take anticoagulant medication daily to avoid complications. She experienced another terrifying clot that left her bedridden for weeks after giving birth to daughter Olympia in 2017.
That same year, she revealed she lived with Sjogren‘s syndrome – a chronic autoimmune condition causing dryness, joint pain and fatigue. Typical symptoms of Sjogren‘s make elite athletic training nearly impossible. But through carefully managed treatment and preparation, Serena continues excelling.
Venus also shares this diagnosis, and the sisters provide invaluable mutual support. Their bond has bolstered them through career highs and serious medical lows.
An Iconic Legacy On and Off the Court
At nearly 41 years old, Serena is likely approaching the twilight of her incredible career. But her enduring impact is undeniable.
Beyond the record-shattering tournament stats, Serena (alongside Venus) also opened doors for African American athletes, especially women, in the predominantly white sport of tennis. The Williams sisters‘ self-assured power and athleticism inspired a new generation while forcing the tennis world to confront issues around racism and double standards.
As a Black American woman competing with fierceness, confidence and style, Serena remains one of the most prominent and influential athlete activists on vital issues. She has been outspoken about the need for equity in pay, prize money, and opportunities – not just in sports, but in all fields.
On top of her activism, she continues to inspire young girls everywhere to believe in their potential for greatness, no matter the obstacles. Serena‘s sheer will and determination show that anything is possible through hard work and perseverance.
While a living legend, she‘s also a doting mom, businesswoman and burgeoning icon in spaces far beyond sports. There will never be another Serena Williams, and her indelible mark on history continues to be written.