Monica Seles Opens Up About Living with Myasthenia Gravis

Monica Seles, the renowned former tennis player, recently discussed her journey with myasthenia gravis during an interview with The Associated Press. The first signs of the neuromuscular autoimmune disease appeared for her while she was playing tennis, as she began experiencing double vision and difficulty in coordination. Seles mentioned, "I would be playing with some kids or family members, and I would miss a ball. I was like, ‘Yeah, I see two balls.’ These are obviously symptoms that you can’t ignore.”

At 51 years old, Seles reflected on her tennis career that included nine Grand Slam titles and her induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame. She was diagnosed with the condition three years ago, and as the U.S. Open approaches, she feels compelled to speak out about her experiences to raise awareness about myasthenia gravis, often abbreviated as MG. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, myasthenia gravis is a chronic neurological condition that causes muscle weakness, primarily affecting younger women and older men but can occur at any age.

Before her diagnosis, Seles had never heard of myasthenia gravis, and it was only after visiting a physician that the reality of her condition set in. She expressed her surprise upon receiving the diagnosis, stating, “When I got diagnosed, I was like, ‘What?!’” Now, alongside argenx, a company specializing in immunology, she aims to promote the "Go for Greater" campaign to support others facing similar challenges.

Reflecting on her career and the various challenges she has faced, including her notable return to competitive tennis at the U.S. Open 1995 after a traumatic stabbing incident, Seles described the incredible support she received from fans during her comeback. She has learned to adapt and accept a "new normal" due to her health condition, emphasizing the importance of adjustment in life.

Throughout her journey, she has faced several personal resets, including moving to the U.S. as a teenager, navigating fame and success at a young age, and dealing with her stabbing. "You’ve got to always adjust," she tells young tennis players she mentors, encouraging them and herself to adapt to life's ever-changing circumstances.