Serena Williams playfully challenges Gabby Thomas' "Grit"

American sprint queen Gabby Thomas recently shared a lighthearted moment with tennis icons Serena and Venus Williams.

During an exclusive interview, a question about the source of her athletic prowess led to a surprising and amusing exchange that has captured fans' attention.

After being plagued with an Achilles injury that sidelined her from the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Thomas has remained a prominent figure, attending events like Athlos NYC to support fellow competitors, focusing on her recovery, and engaging with her fanbase.

In a video clip shared on Instagram, the triple Olympic champion in Paris was asked about the secret to her success. "Probably my grit," she answered. "I’m just a very gritty athlete."

Serena Williams, known for her own legendary tenacity, responded with a playful jab. "Honestly, if I were to look at you, I would be like, she don't look gritty," Williams joked. "I would have written you off. I'd be like, 'Imma outrun her.'"

The candid conversation was part of a series featuring the Williams sisters interviewing other track stars, including Sha’Carri Richardson and Melissa Jefferson-Wooden. Thomas and Richardson share a professional connection beyond the track, as both are athlete investors and founding advisors for the Athlos brand.

With a long recovery period ahead, Thomas is channeling her energy into community-focused initiatives related to health and urban renewal. According to a report from On3, the reigning 200m Olympic champion has partnered with Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day for its "Lots of Compassion" program, which transforms vacant lots into community gardens across the nation.

"During my time away from the track, I’m passionate about volunteering at my community health clinic to ensure I’m doing my part," Thomas explained. "Lots of Compassion goes hand in hand with my passion for public health because it cultivates compassion in our communities... which can actually improve the mental well-being of communities."

Thomas, who holds a degree in neurobiology and global health from Harvard University, also volunteers at a community health clinic in Austin, Texas, reinforcing her commitment to supporting underserved neighborhoods.