"If I wanted to feel better... I’d totally do it": Venus Williams opens up on ageing and cosmetic procedures

Venus Williams, the iconic tennis star who has dazzled courts worldwide for decades, is getting candid about a topic that resonates with many: ageing and cosmetic interventions. Speaking to Marie Claire UK for their fifth annual "Women in Sport" special, the 45-year-old athlete opened up about her views on cosmetic procedures, revealing that she would consider them under one very simple condition: if it made her feel better.

"If I felt like I wanted to feel better about myself, and that’s what made me feel better, I would totally do it," Venus told the publication. This candid admission from the seven-time Grand Slam champion breaks through the usual taboos surrounding cosmetic treatments and ageing, particularly in the highly scrutinised worlds of professional sports and celebrity culture.

Despite her openness, Venus emphasized that she is currently content with her natural appearance. "I would prefer to keep my look, you know," she shared.

The athlete, who has been a trailblazer on and off the court, also stressed her support for anyone who chooses cosmetic procedures to boost their confidence, regardless of the judgments that can sometimes come from society.

"So many people are judging other people,” she said. "But if it makes somebody feel good, that’s all that matters.".

Venus’s perspective comes at a time when the conversation about self-image, especially for women in the public eye, has become increasingly complex. As an athlete, she has long battled the physical toll of her demanding career, including chronic joint issues.

"I feel young [for] my age, physically," she said. "But my knees have always been aged 80 since I was a kid. They’ve never been on my side. I’ve had to drag them along with me."

Her resilience shines through her words and recent performances. After a 16-month hiatus caused by injury and fibroids surgery, Venus made a triumphant return to the court at the 2025 Mubadala Citi DC Open, winning her first match back in doubles alongside Hailey Baptiste.

The superstar also saw success on the singles side, securing a 6-3, 6-4 victory against American compatriot Peyton Stearns last month. Her return not only proved her enduring talent but also sparked speculation about the future of her tennis career.

"I'm just here for now, and who knows?" she told reporters following the win. "Maybe there's more. I haven't played in a year. There is no doubt I can play tennis. I'm still the same player. I'm a big hitter. I hit big. This is my brand.".

Beyond the tennis court, Venus’s attitude toward aging remains refreshingly optimistic. She expressed excitement about the advances in skincare and health technology on the horizon, including her upcoming hip replacement.

"There’s going to be so many amazing things that happen for skincare and aging [in the] next 20 years, so I’m excited to be a part of it," she said enthusiastically. "And I’m so excited for what’s gonna happen with me and my hip replacement," she added with a laugh.

Venus Williams’ comments offer a rare, unfiltered look at how a high-profile athlete approaches the challenges of ageing and self-care in an industry obsessed with youth and perfection. Her openness about considering cosmetic interventions, but only if it enhances her well-being, sends a powerful message about self-acceptance and personal choice.

In a world where public figures often face intense scrutiny over their appearance, Venus’s stance champions the idea that the ultimate goal of any cosmetic procedure should be personal happiness and confidence, not external approval.

As she continues to balance her athletic career, public life, and health, Venus Williams remains a role model not just for aspiring tennis players but for anyone navigating the complexities of ageing with grace and honesty.