**Dame Laura Kenny Discusses Post-Pregnancy Body Image After Wimbledon Return**
Dame Laura Kenny, the decorated British Olympic cyclist, has candidly shared her experiences grappling with body image issues in the weeks following the birth of her third child. The 33-year-old, who welcomed her first daughter, Lily, in May 2025, spoke openly about the emotional and practical challenges she faced during her high-profile appearance at Wimbledon earlier this month.
Kenny, who is the most successful female cyclist in Olympic history, attended Wimbledon with her husband, fellow Olympic champion Jason Kenny. While the pair appeared radiant in public, Laura revealed that the lead-up to the event was far from simple. In a personal Instagram post, she reflected on her difficulties in finding an outfit that accommodated both her changing postnatal body and her need to feed her newborn during the day.
“It’s hugely important to talk about these topics, especially from a woman’s perspective,” Kenny emphasised to her followers. The impact of her message was evident, as the post drew an overwhelmingly positive response from women, with over 1.5 million views and an 86 percent female audience. Kenny said she wanted to highlight the reality behind seemingly glamorous public appearances, noting that the cheerful images often mask the emotional strain women undergo after childbirth.
She explained: “People might see a happy photo of us at Wimbledon, but the reality was quite different. I was stressed and upset, struggling to find something to wear because I didn’t feel like myself. I wanted to be present for my daughter and my family, without giving up opportunities I care about.” Kenny’s honesty resonated with many mothers who often feel pressure to swiftly return to ‘normality’ while managing demanding new routines.
Following her official retirement from professional cycling in March 2024, Kenny quickly adapted to a new chapter as President of Commonwealth Games England. Remarkably, she took up the presidency while seven months pregnant with Lily and returned to her duties less than three months after giving birth, attending her first board meeting. Kenny acknowledged that her quick return to work is unusual, but attributed her adaptability to her career’s fast-paced nature and her comfort with unpredictability.
“Some people think it’s a bit mad to be back at work so soon,” Kenny admitted. “I even recorded a podcast two days after she was born – it just felt natural. My career has always been full of chaos and travel, so I’m used to managing it all with young children. I’m not saying it isn’t difficult, but I enjoy the mayhem.”
With the one-year countdown until the start of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games now underway, Kenny’s responsibilities as President are intensifying. Reflecting on her own athletic past, she highlighted the importance of this milestone for current competitors. “A year to go can seem daunting,” she remarked, “but it’s also when targets are set and dreams start to feel achievable.”
Now, her leadership role allows her to see the Games from an entirely new vantage point. “It’s fascinating being involved with the behind-the-scenes work,” Kenny explained, describing her involvement with everything from accommodation plans to athlete selection policies. The experience, she added, has deepened her appreciation for the effort required to prepare for such a major sporting event.
Looking ahead to the opening ceremony in July 2026, Laura Kenny is eager to contribute further. “The reason I took this role was to give back to the sport and the athletes,” she said. “I’m especially excited about engaging directly with Team England and supporting them through the final preparations. From here, everything just gets busier—and more exciting.”
Dame Laura Kenny’s openness about her personal struggles and her dedication both to her family and sporting community continue to inspire many. As the countdown to Glasgow 2026 continues, her influence as a role model, both on and off the track, is proving as profound as ever.