“Light at the end of the tunnel”
Serena Williams announces the end of her career with a fit of laughter
It has long been speculated that Serena Williams will soon end her career. After her first win in over a year, the American is now announcing her retirement after the US Open.
After her first victory in 14 months, tennis superstar Serena Williams (40) was visibly relieved at the press conference – and yet exhausted. When asked what still motivates her at this point in her career, she bursts out laughing (see video), then says: «I think there is a light at the end of the tunnel. And I’m getting closer to that light. I can’t wait to go through it.”
With these statements, the American confirms the rumors of a possible career end after the US Open. “I know that I will not play forever, even if I love it,” said the former world number one. “That’s why you have to enjoy every moment and give your best.” And she’s already saying goodbye: “I’ll miss you.”
resignation is a taboo subject
In “Vogue” she gives further deep insights into her inner life. So she writes on the subject of resignation: “My husband Alexis and I hardly talked about it.” It was like a taboo subject. “I can’t even talk to my mom and dad about it.” She continues: “I hate it. I hate that I have to stand at this crossroads. My whole life, until now, was tennis.”
Williams’ wish now is to expand her family. Although she makes it clear: “I never wanted to choose between tennis and family.” As a woman, she judges this choice as “not fair” for her. Her daughter Olympia was born in September almost five years ago, having previously won the Australian Open when pregnant. Olympia really wants a little sister. “She doesn’t want anything to do with a boy.”
319 weeks on the tennis throne
Serena Williams is one of the most successful tennis players of all time. The 40-year-old has won 73 titles in her career, 23 of them at Grand Slam level. In addition, Williams spent 319 weeks as the world number one on the tennis throne.
Williams defeated Nuria Parrizas-Diaz (31) from Spain on Monday in the first round of the WTA tournament in the Canadian metropolis 6: 3, 6: 4. The victory ended a long dry spell. She last succeeded at the French Open 2021 when she advanced to the fourth round.
Serena Williams’ next opponent in Toronto is Belinda Bencic (25) from Switzerland or Tereza Martincova (27) from the Czech Republic, who duel on Wednesday night. (AFP/mab)
