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via Reuters

via Reuters

The torchbearer of women’s tennis in the 21 century, America’s Venus Williams, has taken up a new route besides tennis. Inspired from her own battle against autoimmune disease, Williams has launched a completely plant-based diet brand called ‘Happy Vikings’. While the company encourages a healthy, balanced vegan diet, her story sells the rest.

After getting diagnosed with Sjogren Syndrome in 2011, the former World No. 1 couldn’t continue playing tennis. But on the insistence of her sister, Serena Williams, Venus adopted a new diet regime. The transition brought her the 5 Wimbledon title as well as an Olympic Gold medal, both with her sister, in less than 10 months.

Read More: All You Need to Know About the Autoimmune Disease Venus Williams is Suffering from

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“I first started for health reasons”: Venus Williams

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Starting with a plant-based shake, ‘Happy Vikings’ is a medium to fuel mind and body with protein and nutrients. However, for the 49 singles titles holder, the change didn’t come easily. Now, with information and experience, she wants the world to adopt the same through her brand.

Williams explained, “When I first started eating plant-based, it was for health reasons. I couldn’t play tennis. I was thrown in the lifestyle by my wonderful sister Serena.” She added, “I learned a lot about it. A plant-based lifestyle is what you need for optimal health and aging well.”

Even after four Olympic Gold medals – one singles and three doubles – the 40-year-old American will not stop. Her great strength and dedication have inspired athletes and non-athletes equally. With her company in place, Venus will be able to guide many to be their best, just as she did with herself.

Williams wants to break myths behind vegans

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via Reuters

Known as a warrior on and off the court, the American adopted the same idea for her brand’s name. She also suggested that while the shakes help ‘find their inner viking’, they are also great for post-workout recovery. She even spoke about dispelling certain myths about veganism.

“There’s so many myths out there you need to learn about. Vegans get lots of protein. There’s so many ways to do it,” said the 7-time Grand Slam winner.

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Venus will continue on with having one of the brightest and longest careers in tennis history. Along with that, her new journey with her company Happy Vikings is likely to hit an ace too.

WATCH: Venus Williams Spends Offseason By Paving Way for USA’s Future Generation