Serena Williams posts statement supporting Meghan Markle after Oprah interview

Tennis royalty Serena Williams supported her close friend Meghan Markle after the Duchess of Sussex and her husband, Prince Harry, sat down for a shocking, tell-all interview with Oprah Winfrey about the royal family.

During the two-hour broadcast on CBS on Sunday night, Meghan and Harry were candid about what they called an oppressive, controlling and often racist environment in the palace.

One of the most shocking revelations was Meghan’s admission that the lack of support from “The Firm,” as the institutions around the Royal Family are known, caused her to have suicidal thoughts.

“I didn’t want to be alive anymore,” she said. “I was ashamed to admit it to Harry but I knew if I didn’t say it, I would do it. I just didn’t want to be alive anymore. It was clear, it was real, it was frightening, and it was a constant thought.”

On Sunday night, Serena Williams posted a message standing by her longtime friend.

“Meghan Markle, my selfless friend, lives her life—and leads by example— with empathy and compassion. She teaches me everyday what it means to be truly noble. Her words illustrate the pain and cruelty she’s experienced” Williams wrote. “I know first hand the sexism and racism institutions and the media use to vilify women and people of color to minimize us, to break us down and demonize us. We must recognize our obligation to decry malicious, unfounded gossip and tabloid journalism. the mental health and consequences of systemic oppression and victimization are devastating, isolating and all too often lethal.

“I want Meghan’s daughter, my daughter and your daughter to live in a society that is driven by respect. Keep in your memory the fruitage of the spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, mildness, self-control. Against such things there is no law.”

On Instagram, Williams added, “I am so proud of you for being so brave. I know it is never easy. You are strong- both you and Harry. I love you. I adore you. Your friend S.”

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