One Twitter user says Williams' comment "puts women back 50 years". Photo / Getty
One Twitter user says Williams' comment "puts women back 50 years". Photo / Getty
By Claire Cohen
Serena Williams is facing a backlash after saying that giving birth will make her a "real woman".
The 35-year-old, who is due to give birth to her first child with fiance Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit, next month, has angered fans with the remarks made in aninterview with Australian newspaper the Herald Sun.
"I have so much respect for so many women [for giving birth],' Williams said. "I am about to be a real woman now, you know? It's going to be something incredibly impressive to go through."
Serena revealed her pregnancy at The Met Gala in May. Photo / Getty
Her comments have drawn criticism from social media users accusing her of having a "narrow" world view and questioning whether she thinks those who are unable to have children - or choose not to - are not "real women".
Didn't know I had to have a baby to be a "real woman"..thanks for letting me know @serenawilliams
In the same interview, Williams said: "I definitely am a feminist. I like to stick up for women and women's rights. So many things happen and I just think, 'Wow, why don't we have a chance?' If that makes me a feminist, I am proud to be one."
She also admitted that watching birthing videos "makes it worse. Having a baby, nothing is guaranteed."
Williams announced she was pregnant via Snapchat in April. She is thought to have won the Australian Open - her 23rd grand slam title - in January when already pregnant.
Last week, she posted images on social media of her 50s-themed baby shower, which included guests Eva Longoria and Kelly Rowland.
