F1 superstar Lewis Hamilton took a moment before Sunday’s Dutch Grand Prix to pay tribute to Serena Williams. Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam champion, ended her astonishing career at this year’s US Open.
Hamilton, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest drivers in F1 history, described Williams as one of the most inspirational athletes in the sport’s history.
“I take a moment before the race today to show my appreciation and appreciation to the greatest of all time, @serenawilliams. We will never see another Serena. She is one of a kind.
She arrived like a wrecking ball and was so spectacular to behold. She has such ferocity, power and strength in her body and mind. To be so bold, African American, courageous, and above all, a kind and caring human being, it’s beautiful,” Hamilton wrote on Instagram.
Hamilton to Williams: You inspire me every day
Before becoming an F1 superstar, Hamilton used to watch Serena and Venus Williams on TV. Today, Hamilton is a good friend of the Williams sisters.
“I remember watching her and Venus in their first matches with my dad on TV,” Hamilton added. “Seeing such talented women dominate an environment where no one was like them gave me hope.
They made me believe that superheroes exist, and that they can watch me and my family. I never imagined in a million years that I would meet these heroines and call them my friends.”
“I knew I wasn’t alone because of you. I knew I could never give up because you didn’t. I can’t thank you enough. Even today, you remind me not to never give up, you remind me of what we stand for and I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart.
You make me want to be better in all areas. A better competitor, a better brother, a better friend, and a better leader. You inspire me every day and know that you will always have a brother in me.
Serena, I wish you all the best in what lies ahead. You really deserve it.” This week, Williams named Hamilton when asked to reveal his list of the most successful athletes in history. Meanwhile, Hamilton finished fourth in the Dutch Grand Prix.
