After what was probably Serena Williams’ last game, Roger Federer also spoke up and congratulated the American on her sensational career.
“Hey Serena, this is Roger,” Federer begins his message in the video published on the ATP Tour Instagram account. “I want to congratulate you on a truly incredible career. You know what you’ve achieved, I know what you’ve achieved – it was just incredible.”
Williams lost her third-round match at the US Open to Australian Ajla Tomljanovic on Saturday night. Even before the tournament, the 40-year-old announced that she wanted to end her career after the US Open.
“You probably leave this wonderful sport, which gave you everything and more, with mixed feelings,” Federer continues. “I wish you only the best for you and your family. And for your fans, who will all miss you very much – I’m one of them too.”
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The Swiss also remembers Williams’ first-ever of 23 Grand Slam titles. “The 1999 US Open final against Martina Hingis, I stayed up late to see you play. It was the starting signal for your incredible career,” said Federer.
And further: «I am sure that the future will be wonderful for you. Please come back to the tennis family sometime, we will always welcome you with open arms and always be happy when we see you again. But now you should enjoy the moment and the next few weeks, even if it’s going to be tough. Thinking of you, you have my highest respect. I wish you all the best for the future.”
