Serena Williams has firmly denied rumors suggesting she lightened her skin after online speculation arose about her appearance. During an Instagram Live session on Monday, the retired tennis icon addressed the claims while sharing her makeup routine.

“For the haters out there, no, I do not bleach my skin,” Williams stated, dismissing the allegations.

The speculation started after she shared footage from her daughter’s school play, sparking comments on social media about a perceived change in her skin tone.

Williams attributed her appearance to natural factors like sunlight and clarified that she was wearing stage makeup, as she had volunteered to assist backstage at the event.

“There is something called sunlight, and in that sunlight, your skin can appear different,” she explained.

While acknowledging that some individuals choose to alter their skin, Williams made it clear that she embraces her natural complexion.

“I am a dark Black woman, and I love who I am and how I look,” she affirmed.