Serena Williams' Weight Loss Ad During Super Bowl Causes Mixed Feelings

Tennis star Serena Williams was in a commercial for a weight loss medicine company during the Super Bowl. Some people liked the ad, but others did not. This has started a big talk online about weight loss drugs.
By Newsroom | Health, Sports |

Introduction

During the recent Super Bowl broadcast, tennis legend Serena Williams featured in a commercial for Ro, a company offering weight loss programs that utilize GLP-1 medications. Williams, who has publicly shared her own weight loss journey, including the use of such medication, appeared as a brand ambassador. The advertisement's airing has led to a notable division in public opinion, with some individuals expressing strong disapproval while others support her choices.

Serena Williams slammed over 'disgusting' Super Bowl ad as tennis legend promotes weight loss drugs - 1

Background

In August of the previous year, Serena Williams announced that she had begun using a GLP-1 medication to help her lose 34 pounds. She has since become a brand ambassador for Ro, a telehealth service that provides access to these medications. The recent Super Bowl commercial marked Ro's first advertisement during the major sporting event, with Williams as its prominent figure. This move has amplified the conversation around weight loss medications and celebrity endorsements.

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Serena Williams slammed over 'disgusting' Super Bowl ad as tennis legend promotes weight loss drugs - 2

Evidence of Public Reaction

Social media platforms have become a focal point for reactions to the advertisement:

Serena Williams slammed over 'disgusting' Super Bowl ad as tennis legend promotes weight loss drugs - 3

  • Criticism:

  • Some viewers described the ad as "disgusting," with one tweet stating, "Known athlete, Serena Williams, pushing weight loss drugs on people was not on my Super Bowl bingo card."

  • Concerns were raised about the normalization of weight loss drugs, with one comment suggesting, "we're cooked" due to the "greatest tennis player of all time" appearing to endorse "Ozempic."

  • Other critical comments focused on Williams' appearance, with one user writing, "Serena Williams used to look so much better man what happened."

  • Several users expressed disappointment, calling the GLP-1 commercials "absolutely disgusting" and stating it was a "shame" to promote such medication during the Super Bowl.

  • Support:

  • Conversely, some followers of Serena Williams expressed admiration for the ad, noting that she looks "incredible" following her weight loss.

  • This indicates a split in public sentiment, with differing perspectives on the appropriateness and impact of celebrity endorsements for weight loss treatments.

Company and Personal Involvement

Ro’s decision to feature Serena Williams in their Super Bowl debut highlights the company's strategy to leverage high-profile figures for brand visibility. Williams' personal endorsement stems from her own experience, which she has described as contributing to her feeling "much healthier and happier" after struggling with her weight. Notably, Williams' husband, Alexis Ohanian, is identified as an investor and board member for Ro, adding another layer to the context of this commercial venture.

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Discussion on Weight Loss Medications

The advertisement brings attention to GLP-1 medications, a class of drugs often used for weight management. While these medications have gained popularity and are presented by companies like Ro as a solution for individuals struggling to lose weight, there remains a degree of public stigma and debate surrounding their use and promotion. Williams' participation in the ad has brought this discussion to a wider audience during a high-visibility event.

Broader Context

Serena Williams, a celebrated figure in tennis, has largely retired from professional play after a distinguished career. Her post-playing public presence includes endorsements and public statements about her personal life, including her health and wellness journey. This Super Bowl advertisement is part of a broader pattern of athletes transitioning into brand ambassadorships and public advocacy roles after concluding their sports careers.

Conclusion

The Super Bowl advertisement featuring Serena Williams promoting Ro and its weight loss medication has ignited a significant public reaction. While some viewers have voiced strong criticism, deeming the promotion "disgusting" and inappropriate, others have offered support and praised Williams' appearance. This event underscores the ongoing societal discussion surrounding weight loss treatments, celebrity influence, and the marketing of such products. The involvement of Alexis Ohanian further adds to the complex dynamics of this situation. Further analysis would involve examining viewership data and the long-term impact on public perception of both Williams and Ro.

Sources

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who was in the Super Bowl ad?
Tennis player Serena Williams was in the ad. She was advertising for Ro, a company that sells weight loss medicine.
Q: What did people think of the ad?
People had different thoughts. Some people liked it and thought she looked good. Others did not like it and said it was bad to show weight loss drugs.
Q: What is Ro?
Ro is a company that helps people get weight loss medicine. Serena Williams uses their medicine herself.
Q: Is Serena Williams' husband involved?
Yes, her husband Alexis Ohanian is an investor in Ro.