Tennis legend Serena Williams has revealed that she recently underwent surgery to remove a branchial cyst from her neck, which had grown to “the size of a grapefruit.”
In a heartfelt update, Williams shared her experience and recovery on social media.
The 23-time Grand Slam champion discovered the lump in May but initially opted against surgery after tests showed it was benign.
However, as the cyst continued to grow, doctors advised her to proceed with the removal to prevent potential infection.
Branchial cleft cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can appear as lumps or swelling in the neck. According to the National Institutes of Health, these cysts can range from one to ten centimeters in size and are generally considered benign lesions.
In a TikTok video, Williams expressed her relief following the surgery, stating, “I am feeling so grateful and fortunate everything worked out, and most of all I’m healthy.”
She documented a shopping trip with her daughter, Olympia, adding, “I still made it to American Girl doll with Olympia as promised. And yes, all is OK.”
Williams also noted that she missed Rafael Nadal’s retirement announcement while in recovery, emphasizing the importance of health.
“I am still recovering, but getting better,” she posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. “Health always comes first.”
Having turned 43 in September, Williams last competed at the 2022 US Open, marking her farewell to professional tennis.
Regarded as one of the greatest athletes in the sport’s history, she holds the Open Era record for Grand Slam titles and has won 14 Grand Slam doubles titles with her sister, Venus, along with four Olympic gold medals.
