Serena Williams Nails What It’s Like to Work Through Exhaustion as a Mom

In addition to making sure her body is in tip-top shape, Serena Williams has to ensure that she’s well-rested and energized for matches. But now that she’s a mom, she admits it’s even more difficult, because as we already know, raising a kid is tiring all on its own.

On Instagram, the tennis star posted a photo of herself in the backseat of a vehicle, holding daughter Alexis Olympia, 2, who’s named after her Reddit cofounder husband. The little girl is sleeping, but Serena is awake and staring into the distance.

“I am not sure who took this picture but working and being a mom is not easy. I am often exhausted, stressed, and then I go play a professional tennis match,” she admitted in the caption.

But she’s up for the challenge–because she sees fellow working moms who prove juggling family and career can be done.

“We keep going,” she continued. “I am so proud and inspired by the women who do it day in and day out. I’m proud to be this baby’s mama.”

She hilariously ended her post with tags #nofilter, #nomakeup, #nohairbrush and #justme so we all know we’re seeing her in her natural, bare-faced state–but she still looks fab.

In the comments, followers thanked her for being honest and authentic.

“Working moms are expected to work like they’re not mothers, and then mother like they don’t work. Take solace in knowing you’re not alone. ?” wrote one user.

“We’re all out there doing our best. Thanks for acknowledging other hardworking mums. We should all celebrate and cheer for each other. I’m cheering for you, here and on the court,” commented a fellow mother.

Serena has often spoken candidly about working motherhood, from having a supportive hubby to feeling guilty that she’s not around her kid as much as she’d like.

We appreciate her commitment to keeping it real, always.