Serena Williams shows off her growing baby bump as she posts emotional message about becoming mum for first time… and gives HUGE hint that that she will continue her sporting career after birth
SERENA WILLIAMS has given a massive hint that she will continue her tennis career after the birth of her first child in an emotional post on social media.
The world number one revealed late last week that she is 20 weeks pregnant with a child to her fiance Alexis Ohanian.
And today she shared a moving tribute to her unborn child on her Instagram page.
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Alongside a photo of her on what appears to be a beach towel, the sporting sensation wrote: "You gave me the strength I didn’t know I had. You taught me the true meaning of serenity and peace.
"I can't wait to meet you."
She then gave a big clue that she will resume her playing as she wrote: "I can't wait for you to join the players box next year."
It continued: "But most importantly, I am so happy to share being number one in the world with you.... once again today.
"On @alexisohanian bday from the world's oldest number one to the world's youngest number one. Your Mommy."
The 35-year-old returned as world number one this week – but this is set to be a short-lived reign with her set to miss the rest of the tennis season – including Wimbledon.
That means she will be unable to defend her SW19 ladies' title - last year she saw of Angelique Kerber 7-5 6-3 to grab the silverware.
It also means that she was pregnant when she won the Australian Open in January this year.
The 35-year-old collected her 23rd Grand Slam win of an amazing tennis career at this year’s Australian Open that saw her surpass the Open era record set by Steffi Graf.
She beat her sister Venus in the final 6-4, 6-4 to claim her seventh title at the Australian Open.
She has not played since that victory, citing a knee injury.
Williams would be eligible to retain her ranking under the WTA special ranking rule if she is ready to play her first tournament within 12 months of giving birth.