Although her sister Serena Williams, 42, retired two years ago, Venus Williams says she has no plans to slow down at 44. The former world number one says she still lifts weights, swims and practices tennis, although not every day.

“But I always need to be on the court. It’s a great way to stay healthy, burn calories and have nice legs and arms. If you want to look good, play tennis. I’ll continue playing, hopefully the aging process won’t start,” the Williams sister shared in the October issue of Harper’s Bazaar UK.

“I’ve never been close to burnout from work pressure or prolonged stress, although I said last week that I needed a long vacation. I’ve been working too hard for the past few weeks. It’s my choice. We don’t always have a choice, but a break is important,” Venus said.

Venus withdrew from the US Open more than 10 years ago because of the autoimmune disease Sjögren’s, which causes antibodies to attack moisture-producing glands, leading to dryness inside and out of the body. In rare cases, complications of Sjögren’s can lead to salivary gland infections, kidney problems, ulcers or pancreatitis. Venus says it took her seven years to get a diagnosis, despite having all the symptoms. The American admits she struggled to come to terms with the chronic and debilitating condition, doubting herself.

Venus says she struggles with stage fright despite competing in front of thousands of spectators and millions more watching live on television over the years. She credits sports with helping her overcome issues of confidence, stress and resilience. The tennis veteran hopes to inspire others to improve their health through sports. She also highlights the importance of a strong mind.

Venus Williams, born in 1980, is a famous American tennis star, considered one of the greatest female tennis players of all time. The elder Williams won 7 Grand Slam singles titles and with her younger sister Serena won 14 Grand Slam doubles titles. Venus also won the mixed doubles titles twice at the US Open and French Open in 1998. Like her sister, she is also a former world number one in both singles and doubles. In the past two years, Venus has been injured many times and has rarely competed. In addition to her tennis career, she runs an interior design company, develops her own fashion line and invests with Serena in a US football team.