Serena Williams has shared a rare courtside photo with her two-year-old daughter in a heartwarming update on social media. The decorated Grand Slam champion walked away from the sport three years ago, explaining that she was ‘evolving away from tennis’ and that she wanted to expand her family. She also said that she never wanted to have to choose between tennis and family.

Williams has resisted the temptation of making a comeback since hanging up her racket, but she recently returned to the court. Taking to Instagram, she posted four photos of her teaching her daughter, Adira, some tennis basics. The images show Adira dressed in tennis whites while holding onto a mini tennis racket and mimicking Williams by attempting to hit balls.

The tennis legend, who shares Adira with her husband Alexis Ohanian, wore a black all-in one and some bright pink trainers. She captioned the post: “This is me sharing my passion for tennis with my youngest daughter.”

Williams rarely shows off her daughter on social media, with the 44-year-old having a tendency to keep her private life under wraps.

She has found a new calling as a mother since her retirement, having given birth to her eldest daughter, Olympia, just before walking away from tennis.

In a previous interview with Today, she revealed that she had been volunteering at her children’s schools and offered an insight into her new lifestyle.

“As a mom, I’m actually way more active than what I was during tennis,” said Williams. “Obviously, [with] tennis, I was playing Wimbledon and stuff.

“But, as a mom, I’m gone all day. I’m really competitive about it, too. I sign my name up whenever I can, whenever there’s a spot open.”

After welcoming her first child, Williams battled postpartum depression and has spoken honestly about her experience with the aim of helping other mothers.

In a previous Instagram post, she wrote: “I read several articles that said postpartum emotions can last up to three years if not dealt with.

“I like communication best. Talking things through with my mom, my sisters, my friends let me know that my feelings are totally normal. It’s totally normal to feel like I’m not doing enough for my baby. We have all been there.

“I work a lot, I train, and I’m trying to be the best athlete that I can be. However, that means although I have been with her every day of her life, I’m not around as much as I would like to be.

“Most of you moms deal with the same thing. Whether stay-at-home or working, finding that balance with kids is a true art. You are the true heroes. I’m here to say: if you are having a rough day or week, it’s OK, I am, too! There’s always tomorrow.”