Thank you, Serena
FLUSHING, NY - Last night in the sold-out Arthur Ashe Stadium, it was the final match of Serena Williams’ illustrious 27-year tennis career. Williams graced the court one last time, wearing custom Nike shoes dazzled with 400 hand-set diamonds, paired with a matching emblazoned diamond encrusted headband, safe to say the star finished her career in style. In 1999, Serena won her first Grand Slam singles title at the US Open, it was just the start of her incredible career. Fast-forward 23 years later, the star holds 4 Olympic gold medals, 14 Grand Slam Doubles titles, along with 23 Grand Slam Singles titles. Serena now, 40, married, and a mother, showcased she still had some fight left after defeating the world's second-ranked tennis player advancing her to her final third round of the US Open. After the second round victory, the star said, "I'm just Serena," after the commentator asked if she is shocked by the level she is playing. With a chuckle, and a smile, it was clear the GOAT was not shocked, she's just that girl from Compton, California - who happens to be the greatest woman in women's tennis player in history.
By the third round, the end of an iconic career suddenly became very real. Representing Australia, Ajla Tomljanovic, will be the answer to the trivia question, "who was the last player to face Serena Williams in an official match?" In a competitive third round, Williams' marathon came to an end after a 3-set loss. But what truly solidified the ending was William's final twirl that sent the crowd into an emotional bliss, it was time to say farewell to an icon.
“I mean, there’s so many things to be remembered by. Like the fight. I’m such a fighter,” said Williams.
After such a magical career, it is evident Serena will be remembered not only for her historic career but also for inspiring women, people of color, mothers, and athletes worldwide. This has been an incredible privilege to watch an icon in the midst of her greatness, and the best part is Williams has only just begun. This icon has so much more greatness to share with the world.
Photo: B/R (BleacherReport)
"It's been a fun ride, it's been the most incredible ride and journey I've ever been on in my life, and I'm just so grateful to every single person that's ever said, 'Go Serena' in their life. I'm just so grateful because you got me here," said Williams on the Arthur Ashe Stadium court after the match.
While we rave about Serena, it would be incoherent not to mention her sister Venus Williams. Venus Williams, overcame a tough childhood in Compton, California with her little sister Serena after turning pro at age 14. Venus celebrates seven Grand Slam titles, 16 Grand Slam doubles titles and four Olympic gold medals. These sisters are two of the greatest tennis players of all time. Serena could not pass the opportunity to pay homage to her big sister after her final match,
“I wouldn’t be Serena if there wasn’t Venus, so thank you, Venus,” Serena tearfully said. “She’s the only reason that Serena Williams ever existed.”
Photo: B/R (BleacherReport)
The William's sister bond is a bond so special that we all can see through the screens, and on the court. And that sisterly bond was different on Thursday as they played their last match as a doubles team. The Czech Republic duo of Nosková, 17, and Hradecká, 37, advanced to the second round, winning 7-6(5), 6-4. After the defeat you can still see the sister's shine as their eyes shimmer reflecting on their outstanding careers. The girls from Compton, California had a story to tell and the added an exclamation point to their career that night. As we celebrate a duo, and a tennisplayer like no-other, we say: Thank you, Serena!
Photo: B/R (BleacherReport)
