Serena Williams reveals why she is living a Birthday-Free Life as she clocks 42

Former tennis star Serena Williams, who turned 42 on September 26, adheres to the Jehovah’s Witnesses faith, a sect of Christianity that does not celebrate birthdays. This religious practice stems from her upbringing, as she and her sister, Venus Williams, converted to the faith with their mother, Oracene Price, in the early 1980s.

Williams has openly discussed her faith, acknowledging its importance in her life. While she identifies as a Jehovah’s Witness, she admits to not actively practicing it in the past but expresses her desire to delve deeper into her faith.

Her commitment to her faith extends to her family. She famously chose not to celebrate her daughter Olympia’s first birthday in 2018, citing their religious beliefs. Williams’ husband, Alexis Ohanian, respects and supports her decision, even though he did not grow up in a religious household.

In summary, Serena Williams, guided by her Jehovah’s Witnesses faith, does not partake in birthday celebrations, including her own and her daughter’s, as this tradition is discouraged within her religious community.