WATCH: “No Serena without Venus” Serena Williams’ emotional speech has every fan in tears as she hangs up her racket
Follow Us
Serena Williams and Venus Williams
Former World No. 1 Serena Williams has finally played her last match as she lost in the 3rd round of the 2022 US Open in front of a packed Arthur Ashe Stadium. Up against Australia’s Ajla Tomljanovic, Serena put in a big massive battle with trademark shots and defence but eventually it was Ajla who won the match 7-5, 6-7(7), 6-1 to advance into the 4th round at the Grand Slam for the very first time.
Serena saved as many as 6 match points in the final game of the third set which eventually became the final game of her career. With the whole crowd behind her, the possibility of Serena breaking was increasing but she could not hold on to the two break chances she had as Ajla proved herself too good for the 40-year-old who bows out of the sport with her head held high.
“I won’t be Serena if there wasn’t Venus,”: Serena Williams
With the final point being played, it was Serena‘s moment to say goodbye to the court for the final time and Ajla was all class as despite being the winner, she did not show any tantrum when Serena was on the court thanking the fans and gave her on-court interview as well with the boards in the stadium having ‘Greatest of All Time’ on display along with Serena’s name as she moved ahead for her on-court interview.
“Oh my God, thank you so much you guys were amazing today. I tried but I should have played just a little bit better. Thank you Daddy, I know you are watching. Thanks Mom (chokes up), I just want to thank everyone who is here who has been on my side for so many years, decades, oh my gosh, literally decades. But it all started with my parents and they deserve everything and I am really grateful for them.
“These are happy tears I guess (chuckles). I guess. And I won’t be Serena if there wasn’t Venus so thank you Venus. She is the only reason Serena Williams ever existed. It’s been a fun ride. I’m so grateful to every single person that has ever said ‘go Serena!’ in their life. I’m just so grateful. You got me here,“ said Serena.
The speech was certainly an emotional rollercoaster for both Serena and her family and as well as the fans watching the 23-time Grand Slam champion make one final twirl as she exited the Arena. With fans pouring in their love for the American, Serena received the well deserved love and appreciation as she bids goodbye to the sport 27 years after turning Pro.
Stay Updated!
Sarthak Shitole
(3462 Articles Published)