Summary
Venus Williams, a professional tennis player, returned to competitive play partly to regain her health insurance benefits. She mentioned needing the coverage due to her frequent medical needs and the conditions of her tennis career.
Key Facts
- Venus Williams returned to tennis competition at the Mubadala Citi DC Open after a break.
- She stated her return was partly motivated by the need for health insurance benefits.
- Most working-age Americans get health insurance through their jobs.
- Williams previously had health insurance through the Women's Tennis Association (WTA).
- Williams is currently on COBRA, a program allowing continued coverage after leaving a job, but it requires paying the full premium.
- COBRA insurance can be very costly, often similar to a mortgage payment.
- Williams needs regular medical care due to past surgeries, an autoimmune condition, and her status as an elite athlete.
- The Affordable Care Act improved options for athletes like Williams who would have struggled to get coverage in the past.
