Even Megastars Like Venus Williams Face Health Insurance Struggles: What You Need to Know

After a year away from the game, Venus Williams returned to the court at the Mubadala Citi DC Open. Her reason? A light-hearted quip about needing health insurance. “I had to come back for the insurance,” she joked after winning her match. The audience chuckled, understanding her struggle.

Even as a seven-time Grand Slam champion, Williams is not alone in facing the challenges of navigating U.S. health insurance. Here are some key points that highlight why this system can be tricky for many Americans like her.

1. Her Employment Status is Fluid

In the U.S., many get health insurance through their jobs. Employers provide various plan options and cover a chunk of the costs. If someone takes a break from work—like Williams did—access to that insurance often disappears. During her break, she lost her regular health benefits. Fortunately, she now has COBRA, which allows her to keep her job-based insurance. However, she must pay the full premium, which can be steep. According to Miranda Yaver, a health policy professor, COBRA can easily cost $500 or more per month. For some families, that’s like a mortgage payment.

2. She Has Ongoing Health Needs

Williams has health issues that require regular doctor visits. Recently, she underwent surgery for uterine fibroids and has a history of Sjogren’s syndrome, an autoimmune condition. As a professional athlete, she may also need specialized care. Cynthia Cox from KFF notes that athletes require more comprehensive care, especially as they age. Finding an effective health plan can be complicated for someone with such specific needs.

3. More Options Thanks to Reforms

Before the Affordable Care Act (ACA), professional athletes often had difficulty getting health coverage due to their job classification. Today, she has more options. If Williams runs out of COBRA coverage, she can explore ACA plans through Healthcare.gov, a significant change from the past when even wealthy individuals could face uninsurable conditions.

4. Job and Insurance Bond

In the U.S., health insurance is frequently tied to employment. Yaver points out this system originated after World War II when it became a way to attract workers. Unfortunately, it leads to “job lock,” where people stick to jobs solely for health benefits. Recent changes, like the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, are making Medicaid reliant on work, which could further complicate things for low-income individuals.

Williams’s unique situation highlights a broader issue in America’s healthcare system. Even though she is a tennis legend, the challenges of health insurance affect her just like countless others. Fans can look forward to seeing her on the court again soon—insurance or not!

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