Andy Roddick has come out strongly in support of Serena Williams after the tennis legend faced criticism over her use of GLP-1 weight-loss medications. Speaking on a recent episode of his Served podcast, the former World No. 1 said Serena made the right decision and insisted he would have considered the same approach if he were trying to return to professional tennis. His comments come months after Williams publicly discussed using GLP-1 drugs and appeared in a major weight-management commercial that aired during the Super Bowl.
Roddick's Full-Throated Defense
During the podcast, Roddick was discussing what he would do if he ever attempted a comeback on the ATP Tour. While talking about fitness and preparation, he mentioned GLP-1 medications. “Here’s what I would do if I was coming back. I would stop taking hair loss treatment and I would start taking GLP-1s,” he said.
Roddick then directly addressed the criticism Serena Williams received after opening up about her use of the medication. “This is f***ing exactly what she should have done. If anyone is upset about this or if it does end up getting banned because it’s a prescription and obviously helps, it has a very very unique function, I kind of expect the conversation to build. This is the only responsible thing she could have done to get back, like this is the route, this is exactly what she should have done. This is exactly what I would do tomorrow if it wasn’t banned. 112%!”
His remarks made it clear that he sees the treatment as a practical tool for athletes trying to manage their weight and physical condition, rather than something that should attract criticism.
Serena Williams on GLP-1 and Her Comeback
Serena Williams first spoke publicly about using GLP-1 medication during a 2025 interview with Vogue. At the time, she explained that the benefits went beyond weight management and also helped her mentally. “I actually think it’s a problem a lot of other women can relate to, that you are in the gym and eating healthy, but just can’t get to the level you want or need to. I feel lighter mentally, I feel sexier, I feel more confident.”
The discussion around GLP-1 drugs has returned as Williams continues her surprise comeback to professional tennis. The 44-year-old has already played doubles events at Queen’s Club and the Berlin Open this season.
Next, she is expected to reunite with her sister Venus Williams in the women’s doubles draw at Wimbledon. The sisters remain one of the most successful teams in tennis history, winning 14 Grand Slam doubles titles together and three Olympic gold medals.
