Veteran US tennis star Serena Williams has disclosed that being heard by medical professionals after experiencing life-threatening childbirth complications literally saved her life.

She emphasizes the importance of patient advocacy and medical listening, pointing out profound healthcare disparities affecting Black women.

In a chat, the 44-year-old tennis legend opened up about her experience after undergoing life-threatening birth complications and how it has opened her eyes to broader issues in women’s health care.

“You know, when I told my story, I didn’t realize how many people could relate,” Williams shared during a panel at the Forbes Power Women’s Summit 2026.

“So many women from every single background had a nightmare’s tale of their birth, you know? And so— and then it boiled down to I thought, ‘Well, gosh, if men were giving birth, they would have sweets [and] like all kinds of medicines,’ ” she jokingly added. “So it wouldn’t be the same problem at all.”

“I knew something was wrong with me and it was super important that I was heard. Thankfully, my doctor listened to me. The nurses did, but I was so fortunate enough to have a doctor that did and literally saved my life.

“What these women are doing is they’re really letting us know that women’s healthcare is so important, and healthcare in general, because also we’re talking about women who take care of the kids, you know, I take care of my kids mostly.

“With the program, we’re able to actually solve a lot of issues, make, like I said, make those connections that are really vital, that are really important to open so many doors,” Williams continued. Because every time we open a door, we’re solving another problem that’s closer to helping us all in this room and helping our kids.”

Robin Raikkonen, the 11-year-old son of former Formula 1 world champion Kimi Raikkonen, has signed for Red Bull.

Nicknamed ‘Ace’, the youngster has impressed in karting championships and will join Red Bull’s driver development programme in 2027.

The programme has produced F1 drivers such as Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen – both four-time champions.

Robin’s father, nicknamed ‘Iceman’, was the most recent Ferrari driver to become world champion, claiming his sole title in 2007.

The Finn claimed 21 wins and 103 podiums from 349 F1 starts before retiring in 2021.

“We are all thrilled and excited that Robin has been chosen to further his racing path as a member of the Red Bull junior team,” said 46-year-old Kimi.

“They offer a compelling and comprehensive programme to develop and nurture Robin’s progress over the coming years and provide him with all the experience required to develop his natural talent.”

Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies said Robin has “already demonstrated exceptional ability in karting”.

“His speed, racecraft and natural talent have established him as one of the most promising young drivers in his age group,” Mekies added.

“At the same time, he impresses with his maturity, his calm approach and his clear focus on driving.

“Our goal is to develop him step by step, without placing any unnecessary pressure on his shoulders.

“The path through motorsport is a long one and we will give him the time, support and resources he needs to maximise his potential.”

Robin follows in the footsteps of Ella Hakkinen, the daughter of Finland’s double world champion Mika Hakkinen, who joined McLaren’s driver development programme last year.

Spanish second-division side Eldense said Argentina great Lionel Messi has reached a “preliminary agreement” to become the club’s majority shareholder.

Eldense will become the second Spanish club Messi has invested in, having bought Catalan side Cornella in April.

The 39-year-old former Barcelona forward currently plays for Inter Miami and recently retired from international football after Argentina were beaten 1-0 by Spain in the 2026 World Cup final.

Eldense said: “A preliminary agreement has been reached with Lionel Messi for the acquisition of the shares currently owned by Grupo TH Soluciones, which would make him the club’s majority shareholder.

“The transaction is currently subject to the completion of the remaining legal and contractual procedures, including the due diligence process, as well as the required authorisation from the Spanish National Sports Council (CSD).”

The club, based in Alicante, have two points from four games this season and, sitting 20th in La Liga 2, parted ways with head coach Claudio Barragan earlier this week.

Cornella are in the fifth tier of Spanish football and in April said Messi’s ownership “reinforces his close ties to Barcelona and his commitment to the development of sport and local talent in Catalonia”.

He left Argentina for Spain when he was 13 and made his first-team debut for Barcelona aged 17 in October 2004.

He went on to score a club record 672 goals in 778 games before he left for French club Paris St-Germain in 2021 prior to joining Major League Soccer side Inter Miami in the United States in 2023.

Messi’s former Real Madrid rival Cristiano Ronaldo, who plays for Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, bought a 25% stake in Spanish side Almeria in February.