Serena Williams says struggling with 'postpartum emotions'

Serena Williams was in a "funk" last week because she felt her hectic schedule was not leaving her enough time to care for her 11-month old daughter, the 23-time grand slam champion said in a social media post on Monday.

The 36-year-old American pulled out of the Rogers Cup in Montreal on Saturday citing "personal issues", days after she was beaten 6-1 6-0 by Johanna Konta in the first round of the Silicon Valley Classic, the most lopsided defeat of her career.

"Last week was not easy for me. Not only was I accepting some tough personal stuff, but I just was in a funk," Williams said in an Instagram post. "Mostly, I felt like I was not a good mom,"

"I read several articles that said postpartum emotions can last up to 3 years if not dealt with. I like communication best. Talking things through with my mom, my sisters, my friends let me know that my feelings are totally normal.

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"It's totally normal to feel like I'm not doing enough for my baby."

Williams said feeling overwhelmed was a normal part of being a new mother and encouraged anyone struggling through a rough patch to stay positive.

"We have all been there. I work a lot, I train, and I'm trying to be the best athlete I can be," she said.

"However, that means although I have been with her every day of her life, I'm not around as much as I would like to be.

"Most of you moms deal with the same thing. Whether stay-at-home or working, finding that balance with kids is a true art. You are the true heroes.

"I'm here to say: if you are having a rough day or week -it's ok - I am, too!!! There's always tomm!"