Ep 1. Being Serena 01

Being Serena is a documentary series that follows the life and career of tennis superstar Serena Williams. Season 1 episode 1, titled "Being Serena 01," takes viewers on a journey through Serena's pregnancy and the birth of her daughter, Alexis Olympia.

The episode begins with footage of Serena playing tennis while pregnant, leading up to the ultimate moment when she gives birth. We see Serena and her husband, Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian, discussing their excitement and apprehension as they prepare for the arrival of their first child. Serena reflects on how her pregnancy changed her priorities and mindset, and how she now looks at life beyond tennis.

Serena's pregnancy is not without complications, as she reveals that she had to undergo an emergency c-section due to her daughter's low heart rate during labor. The episode then takes us through Serena's emotional recovery, including her struggle with postpartum mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety. This part of the show sheds light on a rarely talked about aspect of childbirth and motherhood.

Aside from her health struggles, we also see Serena navigating the transition from being a professional athlete to a new mother. She talks about the pressures and expectations that come with being a high-profile athlete and how that impacts her approach to being a parent. Serena's desire to continue playing tennis fuels her drive to get back into shape post-pregnancy, and we see her working out and practicing while juggling motherhood.

Serena is equally open about her personal life, and we get to see how she balances her busy schedule with spending time with family and friends. She talks about her relationship with her sister Venus, their mutual love of fashion, and their close bond. We also get a glimpse of Serena's home life with Alexis and their daughter, as they navigate the challenges of first-time parenthood together.

One of the most touching moments of the episode is when Serena discusses her daughter's namesake, her father. We see flashbacks of Serena and her father, who passed away in 2003 when she was just 21, and how his influence has shaped her life. She talks about the importance of carrying on his legacy through her daughter's name, Alexis Olympia, and how her father's memory inspires her to be the best mother she can be.

Overall, Being Serena season 1 episode 1 offers a candid and intimate look into the life of one of the world's most iconic athletes. It gives viewers a rare glimpse into Serena's personal life, including her struggles, triumphs, and everything in between. Whether you're a die-hard tennis fan or simply curious about Serena's remarkable life, this documentary series is a must-watch.