Serena Williams to publish her first children’s book

Tennis great Serena Williams announced Thursday that she is publishing her first children’s book.

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Williams, 40, whose 23 Grand Slam titles are the most in the Open era and second only behind Margaret Court’s 24 championships, told “Good Morning America” that she will release “The Adventures of Qai Qai,” a picture book about her 4-year-old daughter’s favorite doll.

The book, published by Macmillan imprint Feiwel and Friends, will come out on Sept. 27, 2022, according to The Wall Street Journal. Williams is publishing the book with entertainment tech company Invisible Universe, a company where she is a partner and investor, People reported.

Williams created an Instagram account for Qai Qai Instagram in 2018, according to “Good Morning America.” The doll is now sold online and has accumulated millions of fans, according to the television show.

“People follow Qai Qai’s social media accounts for laughs and trending dance moves, but she represents something much deeper than that,” Williams said in a statement. “Qai Qai has an infectious spirit and models a belief that anything is possible. This book reflects the lessons she teaches and embodies and we hope others can walk away inspired after reading ‘The Adventures with Qai Qai.’”

According to the book’s description, the story follows the character Baby Girl as she worries about an upcoming dance recital, The Wall Street Journal reported. Her doll, Qai Qai, comes to life and the two embark on “a magical journey that shows Baby Girl that she’s ready for the stage.”

The book is illustrated by Yesenia Moises, the newspaper reported.

Williams has not competed on the WTA Tour since Wimbledon due to injury, Tennis magazine reported. She has yet to reveal when she will return to action.

Williams published her memoir, “On The Line,” in 2009.

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