Unveiling the Iconic Fashion Journey: Serena Williams Reflects on the Catsuit Sensation

When Serena Williams made her comeback at the 2018 French Open shortly after becoming a mother, the focus wasn't on her easy win against Kristýna Plíšková. Instead, all the buzz was about her outfit: the famous superhero 'catsuit.'

And, boy, was there a conversation.

Serena Williams has become a prolific investor.

Serena Williams has become a prolific investor.

CNN

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"I didn’t realize it would have such a big effect," Williams shares with CNN Sport’s Amanda Davies. "I was simply focused on staying healthy, being a new mom, and just being myself. It was a special moment for me. I never expected it to create such a reaction."

Williams received a ban on wearing the catsuit at upcoming French Open events following a statement from French Tennis Federation President Bernard Giudicelli, who announced that Roland Garros would be implementing a new dress code.

Giudicelli stated that the catsuit will not be allowed anymore, emphasizing the importance of respecting the sport and its traditions. This decision sparked a lot of backlash, with tennis legend Billie Jean King speaking out against the enforcement of strict dress codes for women athletes.

The skintight outfit not only looked stylish but also had a practical purpose, according to Williams. She mentioned that it helped improve her blood circulation following a challenging childbirth.

Despite this, Williams expressed no objections to the judgment and remarks made by Giudicelli.

Serena Williams wore the now iconic catsuit at the 2018 French Open.

Serena Williams wore the now iconic catsuit at the 2018 French Open.

Tim Clayton/Corbis/Getty Images

The black outfit had a red band that ran around the waist, but Williams revealed the original design wasn’t supposed to look that way.

"When I first tried it on during a fitting, there was a red line on it. The red line was just a temporary mark because they were planning to change it to either dark silver or black. However, I insisted on keeping it red. I thought it looked really cool. Even though it was just a sample, I was determined that the final product had to be in this color. Wearing it made me feel really comfortable."

She adds wistfully, "Oh my God, now I'm getting sad memories because I miss it. Oh no, now I'm like: 'I want to go home and put it on, and of course, I want to play and slide around on some clay. Oh, such good memories."

Williams, who has not played competitively since the 2022 US Open, mentions that she hasn't worn the outfit since that year. "But I need to," she adds.

The 14-time grand slam doubles champion, who is often regarded as the greatest women's tennis player of all time, expressed her initial fascination with the catsuit. She found it to be unique compared to the typical attire worn by players in the traditional and conservative sport of tennis.

When she first donned the catsuit, Williams felt a strong connection to it. She described the experience as making her feel like a "warrior" or even "a queen from Wakanda," a reference to the fictional nation in the Marvel movie "Black Panther."

Williams was banned from wearing the outfit at future French Opens.

Williams was banned from wearing the outfit at future French Opens.

When the outfit first made headlines, most of the focus was on its fashion and whether it was appropriate for tennis. However, not much attention was given to the fact that the catsuit was actually created to support Williams' physical well-being.

In 2018, Williams shared her near-death experience during childbirth with CNN, revealing that she faced complications with blood clots while delivering her daughter, Olympia.

Reflecting on her experience, the 42-year-old expressed her desire for the practical aspects of the catsuit's design to be given more thought during that period.

"I absolutely adore wearing skirts," she exclaims. "They're my go-to clothing choice, along with my tennis dresses. However, I also wanted to ensure good blood circulation after a near-death experience.

"I believe there should have been more awareness and consideration for the entire outfit, regardless of whether it was there or not. I was in it and couldn't escape that reality."

Nike, her kit manufacturer, has earned her praise for their ability to ignite meaningful conversations and truly grasp the needs of athletes.

She reflects on a time when she felt a deep need to be understood. It was shortly after giving birth to her child, when she was facing challenges with blood clots. Despite the difficulties, she found solace in the support and understanding she received from Nike.

It was great to feel understood by them at that time. Just hearing my voice and listening to my thoughts, especially after the catsuit incident, was truly incredible - and even shocking.

Nearly six years have passed since I wore the catsuit on the Parisian clay. Being a mother has taught me to be kinder to myself.

The catsuit served a serious purpose, helping Williams with blood circulation following complications during childbirth.

The catsuit served a serious purpose, helping Williams with blood circulation following complications during childbirth.

MICHAEL BRADLEY/AFP/AFP via Getty Images

She says she has always instilled that kindness in her daughter, too, teaching her that what she says to herself – and others – really matters.

"I have become more accepting of body image and more understanding," she shares. "It's not just about me, but also about how I speak to my daughter. I always encourage her to say something kind. Can you think of something nice to say about this girl?"

"I want her to always have a positive outlook on others. Being critical and negative can have a harmful impact on mental health."

“So I think it just starts at such a young age of just encouraging positive views and positive feedback and positive words that are coming out of your mouth.”

Editor's P/S:

Serena Williams' "catsuit" incident at the 2018 French Open sparked a heated debate about the intersection of fashion, tradition, and athleticism in women's sports. While the initial focus was on its aesthetics, the outfit's practical purpose in aiding Williams' blood circulation post-childbirth was often overlooked. This highlights the need for greater attention to the unique needs of female athletes and a move away from rigid dress codes.

The controversy also underscores the importance of listening to and valuing the voices of those directly affected by such decisions. Williams' experience demonstrates the power of speaking up and advocating for one's health and well-being. By refusing to be silenced, she challenged the status quo and paved the way for more open and inclusive conversations about the challenges faced by women in sports.