Serena Williams’ name is synonymous with power, precision, and an unyielding competitive spirit.
However, despite her dominance on the court, she often faced scrutiny off of it, particularly regarding allegations of performance-enhancing drug use.
Rick Macci shuts down Serena rumors
Over Williams’ illustrious tennis career, she collected 73 singles titles, including 23 Grand Slam victories, the most in the Open Era.
Though she never tested positive, her muscular physique and frequent anti-doping tests fueled speculation.
Now, her childhood coach, Rick Macci, has taken to social media to address these claims and shed light on what truly set Serena apart from a young age.
Macci, who trained both Williams sisters in the early 1990s, emphasized that her strength and athleticism were purely natural.
“As a kid, Serena already had rock-solid genetic muscles on muscles. A unique rare combo of power strength and loose wires from shoulders to toes. Nobody said anything,” he wrote on X.
Macci went on to highlight how, as Serena’s success grew, so did the accusations. “As a pro, when she started winning and flexing her greatness, instead of Venus being her best friend, it was ‘MR. STEROID,'” he added, referring to the criticism Serena faced throughout her career.
However, Macci firmly believes her dominance was the result of natural ability, rigorous training, and an unparalleled work ethic instilled by her father, Richard Williams.
Despite the suspicions surrounding her, Serena was subjected to drug testing more frequently than her peers.
In 2018, she publicly voiced her frustration, tweeting, “Out of all the players, it’s been proven I’m the one getting tested the most. Discrimination? I think so.”
However, she maintained her willingness to comply, stating, “But I’m ready to do whatever it takes to have a clean sport, so bring it on.”
Macci has long defended Serena against such accusations, reinforcing that she was simply built differently.
“Everybody thought steroids, and she lifted weights. Richard the Compton Comedian told everybody, ‘She only lifts trophies!'” he wrote, emphasizing that Serena’s success stemmed from raw talent and relentless determination.
Serena Williams’ career remains a testament to her natural gifts, hard work, and resilience.
While the allegations may have followed her, her clean record and historic achievements speak for themselves.
Macci’s insights offer a reminder that greatness isn’t always the product of controversy, it can also be the result of sheer, undeniable talent.
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