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Topless, singing Serena sparks internet breast cancer stir
SYDNEY, Sept 30, 2018 (BSS/AFP) – Tennis superstar Serena Williams caused
an internet sensation Sunday by posing topless for a video while singing “I
Touch Myself” to raise awareness for breast cancer.
In the Instagram video, Williams covers her breasts with her hands while
singing a version of Australian band The Divinyls’ 1991 hit in support of
Breast Cancer Network Australia.
“This Breast Cancer Awareness Month I’ve recorded a version of The
Divinyls global hit ‘I Touch Myself’ to remind women to self-check
regularly,” wrote Williams on the post.
“Yes, this put me out of my comfort zone, but I wanted to do it because
it’s an issue that affects all women of all colors, all around the world.
Early detection is key — it saves so many lives.”
The song was co-written by Divinyls Australian vocalist Chrissy Amphlett
who died of breast cancer five years ago aged 53.
“The music video is part of the I Touch Myself Project which was created
in honor of celebrated diva, Chrissy Amphlett, who passed away from breast
cancer, and who gave us her hit song to remind women to put their health
first,” said the 23-time Grand Slam champion.
The video was viewed more than 1.3 million times in the first 10 hours
after it was posted early Sunday with fans lauding the tennis superstar for
her bravery in performing the song.
“Amazing Serena, important message and such a beautiful voice!” wrote one
under the username deedpaula.
Another alshaze47 commented: “This is powerful!! I’m a Breast cancer
survivor!!”
The video appeared less than three weeks after her tempestuous US Open
final defeat to Naomi Osaka, where Williams smashed a racquet and accused an
umpire of sexism.
Williams, who celebrated her 37th birthday four days ago, pulled out of
this week’s China Open in Beijing to bring a premature end to her 2018
season, her first back on tour since giving birth to a daughter a year ago.
BSS/AFP/BZC/1900HRS