Monica Seles Reveals Myasthenia Gravis Diagnosis and Her Inspiring Journey

Tennis legend and Hall of Famer Monica Seles has once again captured worldwide attention—not just for her iconic Grand Slam victories but now for the deeply personal diagnosis she is bravely sharing. At age 51, she has revealed that she’s been living with myasthenia gravis, a rare neuromuscular autoimmune disease, for the past three years—and is speaking out publicly for the very first time.

Her Diagnosis: A Life-Changing Revelation

Seles quietly faced symptoms that initially seemed confusing—a moment during a casual game with family when she missed a ball and realized, “I see two balls.” These episodes of double vision and muscle weakness ultimately led to her being diagnosed with myasthenia gravis in 2022 0.

MG is characterized by weakness in voluntary muscles, affecting everyday tasks like doing hair or walking. Seles described how even simple actions became a struggle, calling it a profound “new normal” she’s learning to accept 1.

A Journey Marked by Resilience

For Seles, this diagnosis joins the list of significant “resets” in her life—from immigrating to the U.S. at a young age, ascending to world No. 1 in her teens, surviving a traumatic on-court stabbing, to now adapting to life with MG 2. She is choosing to speak out now, ahead of the U.S. Open, aiming to raise awareness and inspire others living with rare diseases 3.

Understanding Myasthenia Gravis (MG)

• MG is a chronic autoimmune disorder that disrupts communication between nerves and muscles, leading to fluctuating muscle weakness 4.
• Common symptoms include drooping eyelids, double vision, difficulty swallowing or speaking, and fatigue that worsens with activity but improves with rest 5.
• Diagnostic methods may include neurological exams, antibody tests, electrophysiological studies, and therapeutic evaluations like the ice-pack or Tensilon test 6.
• MG affects approximately 20 per 100,000 people; many cases remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed 7.
• Despite its challenges, MG is often manageable through medication, immunotherapy, and lifestyle changes supported by emerging treatments 8.

Why Seles’s Story Matters

By sharing her diagnosis, Seles is not only raising vital awareness about MG but also offering hope and representation to others with chronic health challenges. Her candor reminds us that even champions face unseen battles—and adapting with grace is a powerful victory 9.

Internal Link for Deeper Insight

For another inspiring transformation story, explore how Sarah lost 77 pounds in 7 months—a journey of resilience and mindful change.

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Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available sources and is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for personal health matters.