What does Serena Williams wear on her face when she plays tennis and why?

Tennis ace Serena Williams was shockingly eliminated during a first-round defeat at this year’s Wimbledon against French player Harmony Tan.

Williams returned to Wimbledon as a wildcard in the singles draw, but Tan secured a 7-5 1-6 7-6 victory to progress into the second round, turning around a four-point deficit in a tense tiebreak to secure the biggest win of her career.

She made her return to the sport at the Rothesay International following a 12-month break.

The 40-year-old athlete and partner Ons Jabeur came from a set down to beat Sara Sorribes Tormo and Marie Bouzkova in the women’s doubles.

But her recent appearances have given fans a reason to talk for more reasons than one.

Many questioned what was on the star’s face as she played, and why?

Here’s what you need to know.

Williams was seen wearing black plasters or medical tape on her face during her last match.

The reason for this was because she suffers from sinus problems, according to The Times, and wearing them relieves pain and pressure.

Speaking to Reuters, Williams shared some tips to deal with sinus problems.

She said: ‘To avoid some of the trouble, it’s important not to use so much ice in your beverages. Sometimes that stops you up and makes you get a lot of pressure.

‘I’ve learned taking hot, hot showers, as hot as you can stand it, helps clear those passageways. And working out helps a lot. That keeps you clear, keeps your chest clear, and keeps everything clear.

‘I’ve got the working out part right, but I’m still working on ice in my drinks because I like my drinks cold all the time.’

Other tips shared by Williams to control sinus problems included using a natural saline spray several times daily to keep sinuses moist, getting plenty of rest,