Tennis superstar Serena Williams recently hosted a lavish baby shower, but one notable absence was her close friend, Duchess Meghan Markle.

The event, attended by high-profile guests, raised eyebrows as Meghan was reportedly left out due to her desire for a large media presence.

The baby shower, held over the weekend, was a star-studded affair captured in a teaser video shared on Serena’s Instagram and later on YouTube.

However, the absence of Meghan, who was initially invited, raised speculation about the rift between the two friends.

Sources revealed that Meghan’s request for an extensive paparazzi entourage and the presence of a personal photographer, Misan Harriman, did not sit well with Serena.

Consequently, Meghan found herself on the sidelines of the party, unable to join the festivities inside.

In contrast, images from Meghan’s own baby shower in 2019 showcased her interacting with the press in a glamorous setting.

The event, attended by celebrity friends like Serena Williams and Abigail Spencer, highlighted Meghan’s comfort in the spotlight.

While Meghan’s approach to media coverage has been scrutinized, Serena’s baby shower was a spectacle of its own.

The event featured a marquee next to a tennis court, a water park for children, and food vans serving guests throughout the day.

The highlight of the evening was the gender reveal, where a drone display announced Serena’s anticipation of a baby girl.

The joyous moment was shared with Serena’s daughter Olympia, adding to the celebration’s heartfelt atmosphere.

Amidst the festivities, Serena’s husband, Alexis Ohanian, expressed his excitement about becoming a father to another girl.

Vanity Fair writer Sam Kashner shed light on Serena’s perspective, describing Meghan as merely an acquaintance rather than a close friend.

During a recent appearance on Naomi Campbell’s YouTube show, Serena skillfully avoided questions about Meghan’s relocation to Los Angeles.

With humor and finesse, Serena navigated the topic, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and self-expression.

The dynamics between Serena and Meghan have sparked intrigue, with subtle hints at underlying tensions.

While their friendship may have faced challenges, Serena’s baby shower served as a reminder of joy and celebration, setting the stage for new beginnings and cherished memories.