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| Image Source: The Guardian |
Williams' legacy has had an impact both on and off the court, and her 27 years on the tour have shown that the icon is one of the all-time greatest athletes in the history of any sport, whether it be played by men or women.
After losing to Ajla Tomljanovic in the third round of the US Open by scores of 7-5, 6-7(4), and 6-1, Serena Williams' twenty-five-year career as a professional tennis player came to an end. Williams' legacy has had an impact both on and off the court, and her 27 years on the tour have shown that the icon is one of the all-time greatest athletes in the history of any sport, whether it be played by men or women. Here are some of the sportsmen, celebrities, and leaders' responses to Williams' retirement:
Former Cricketer Sachin Tendulkar
One of the greatest cricketers to ever play the sport Sachin Tendulkar has recently talked up about Williams' incredible career. Sachin applauded Serena on social media for motivating people for more than 20 years.
"Age is what your mind tells your body, not what your body tells you about your age. The largest problems in the world can be solved by teenagers, while adults can learn new skills and succeed. Sport encourages people to challenge themselves and do impossible things. Congrats on a successful career, said the post's caption.
The tweet quickly gained traction, receiving more than 4,000 likes in just 30 minutes.
Michelle Obama, a former U.S. First Lady
“Congrats on an incredible career, @SerenaWilliams! How fortunate we were to have witnessed the growth of a small Compton girl into one of the greatest athletes in history. I admire you greatly, my friend, and I look forward to watching the lives you continue to touch via your abilities.
ex-No. 1 in the world of tennis King, Billie Jean
"Her amazing career left a lasting impression on tennis history. Her biggest achievements might still be ahead of her, though. I appreciate it, @serenawilliams. Your trip goes on.
renowned golfer Tiger Woods
“@serenawilliams You are the best both on and off the court. We are all grateful to you for motivating us to achieve our aspirations. I adore you, little sister!
Ajla Tomljanovic, a tennis player from Australia
"Just cause I love Serena as much as you guys do, I'm feeling totally sad. She has accomplished tremendous things for both tennis and me. When I think back on watching her in all those finals, I never imagined I'd get the chance to compete against her in her last match, so this is a bizarre experience for me. The strain wasn't on me since I believed she would defeat me. I was certain she could win even though she was behind 5-1 going into the last point. She is the best of all time because it is just who she is. Period.”
Gymnastics four times Olympian Simone Biles, a gold medalist
"Thank you @serenawilliams for bringing sports to a new level for female, black, and all athletes. It was so much fun to watch you, and you're an inspiration.
Olympic gold medalist in swimming Michael Phelps
It has been a lot of fun to witness Serena transform not only tennis but also, and maybe more significantly, the way that the younger generation is empowered.
Her achievements in tennis speak for themselves, but one quality I respect about her is that she never gives up. She never gives up, whether on or off the court, thanks to her willpower, toughness, and tenacity. She sets a terrific example for everyone.
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