Serena Williams wasn’t sure she could love her second child as much as her first. According to recent studies, this common parental concern affects approximately 80 percent of parents expecting their second child.
The 43-year-old tennis legend has Olympia, 7, as well as 15-month-old Adira with her husband Alexis Ohanian and admitted that she was unsure how she would feel about her youngest while she was pregnant but has found that her “heart just got bigger” as she went further on into motherhood. Research shows that this expansion of parental love is supported by neurological changes in the brain during pregnancy and after childbirth.
She told People: “Olympia was a solo child. She was our star. And I am so obsessed with Olympia. Even when I was pregnant, I was like, ‘How do I even love anyone as much as Olympia? It just doesn’t work.'” This sentiment resonates with many parents, with psychologists noting that such concerns are a natural part of preparing for a second child.
Williams: ‘My heart just got bigger’
“It’s so funny how, I don’t know, just your heart gets bigger. I was just like, my heart just got bigger.” Studies have shown that the brain’s capacity for emotional attachment actually expands with each child, rather than dividing existing love.
Williams also admitted that whilst her elder daughter is a “hard act to follow,” her younger seems to be managing well and has become such a “tough little cookie” even at her early stage in life. Child development experts note that second children often develop resilience and independence earlier than their older siblings.
She said: “Olympia is a very hard act to follow, but I tell you what, Adira has followed it and it’s just so crazy. She’s amazing. I just can’t wait for people to see how amazing she is in her own way. And she’s so special and she’s so tough. She’s just a tough little cookie. And she reminds me a lot of me in that aspect.” Personality traits in children can often be observed as early as 14 months old, according to developmental psychology research.
Serena previously admitted that there was “a lot of pressure” on her from her elder daughte while she was pregnant, who was hoping to end up with a little sister. Sibling gender preference is common among children, with studies showing that about 70 percent of children express a specific preference for a brother or sister.
Sibling pressure
Asked about the adjustment of going from one child to two, Williams told Extra: “My baby kept saying, she’s like, ‘I want a sister! I want a sister!’ So, that was also a lot of pressure — is it gonna be a girl or a boy, you know? But no, I always wanted a family, a big family, but we’ll see.” Family dynamics research indicates that same-gender sibling pairs often form closer bonds in early childhood.
Williams’ journey reflects the experiences of many parents navigating the transition from one child to two. Her candid sharing has helped normalize these common parental concerns for millions of families worldwide, as shown by social media engagement and parenting forum discussions.
The tennis champion’s openness about her parenting journey has particularly resonated with working mothers, who often face similar challenges balancing career achievements with family life. Recent surveys indicate that 65 percent of professional women share similar concerns about expanding their families while maintaining their careers.
Research from leading family psychology institutions suggests that the adjustment period for families welcoming a second child typically takes between 6-12 months. During this time, parents discover that their capacity for love naturally expands to encompass all their children equally.
