Serena Williams Covers Essence 'Body Issue' And Shows Off Her Killer Curves (PHOTO)

While Serena Williams continues to inspire us with her athletic prowess on the court , the tennis champ is also giving us hope when it comes to the hot topic of body image.

The 5-foot-9-inch, 155-pound beauty is the official covergirl of Essence magazine's July 2013 "Body Issue," proving you don't have to be a size two to look fabulous in next to nothing. Donning a radiant smile and striking a pose in a blue ombr swimsuit by Carmen Marc Valvo, Serena exudes the type of confidence we can all aspire to.

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In the issue, which she guest edited, the 31-year-old star dives into issues that range from self-esteem and aging to maintaining her health and embracing her famous curves. In fact, curvy women are having a major moment --much to Serena's (and our) delight.

"It can be a bit weird," she admits. "Before it was, 'Serena has a big butt,' and that was all," Serena told Essence. "Now there are way more people who feel comfortable with themselves and they're saying, 'I'm a woman, and this is what I look like.' I always say, 'We're popular now! We're finally in style!' "

Being on trend was the furthest thing from Serena's mind two years after suffering from a pulmonary embolism. However, she battled back to pick up a some titles, a few Olympic gold medals and reclaim her spot as the #1 female tennis player in the world.

And the way Serena sees it, she has no plans of slowing down.

I feel lighter, I feel healthier, and even though Im 31which really isnt old, but for an athlete, particularly a tennis player, its oldI promise you, my body has never felt better. Considering how much Ive played and how much Ive done, I feel fine. Im strong..."

To read more of Serena's interview pick up Essence's "Body Issue," which hits newsstands June 7th. And make sure to take a look at the slideshow below for a few tips from Serena on her shopping strategy, her go-to hairstyle when working out and the exercises she recommends for non-athletes to get fit for bikini season.