Serena Williams undergoes surgery to remove a grapefruit-sized cyst from her neck

Serena Williams, a champion with 23 Grand Slam singles titles, announced on Wednesday that she successfully had a grapefruit-sized cyst removed from her neck and is currently recovering well.

In a TikTok video, the former world number one in women's tennis shared that she discovered a lump on the right side of her neck in May, which an MRI later identified as a brachial cyst.

"I am still in the recovery process, but I am improving. Health always takes precedence," Williams stated on X.

Initially, Williams did not have the cyst removed right away; however, after it increased in size and following several tests and a biopsy, she opted for surgery to have it excised.

"I was alarmed when I noticed this large mass on my neck," she expressed in the video.

"I underwent numerous tests, everything imaginable, and all results were negative. Ultimately, it was determined that I had what is referred to as a cyst, specifically a brachial cyst.

"As a result, I had to have it removed. It was quite large, comparable to a grapefruit, and the removal process was somewhat painful."

"The medical team had to insert a drain due to the volume, but everything turned out well, and I am truly grateful to have collaborated with some excellent doctors.

"I felt a bit anxious, yet I am eager to proceed with the next stages of healing and recovery."

The conclusion of her video featured Williams alongside her daughter Olympia, enjoying a promised shopping excursion following the surgery.

"I am incredibly thankful and fortunate that everything has turned out well, and most importantly, I am healthy," Williams wrote in the video caption. "I still made it to American Doll with Olympia as promised.

"And yes, all is well."

Williams secured her first Grand Slam title at the 1999 US Open and her final one at the 2017 Australian Open.

Her illustrious career includes seven Australian Open titles, seven Wimbledon championships, six US Open victories, and three French Open titles before her retirement following the 2022 US Open.