Serena Williams Speaks Out After Surprise Appearance to Induct Rival Maria Sharapova Into Tennis Hall of Fame - Read Her Statement!
Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova reunited on Saturday night (August 23) for a major career milestone.
The 42-year-old tennis legend shocked fans when she walked on stage at the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, Rhode Island to induct Maria into the Class of 2025.
“There are only a few players in my career who challenged me to be the very best, every single time we stepped out on the court. Maria Sharapova was one of them,” Serena told the crowd, via The Guardian. “Whenever I saw her name next to mine in the draw, I made sure I practiced harder.”
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The 38-year-old tennis player responded in her own speech, calling their rivalry “a gift.”
“It’s a gift to have someone who motivates you to reach those heights. And I’ll forever be grateful for bringing out the best in me,” she said.
The Russian star, who became the first woman from her country to reach No. 1 in the world rankings and is one of only 10 women to complete the career Grand Slam, looked back on her career with gratitude.
“In giving my life to tennis, tennis gave me a life,” she said. “And what a remarkable, remarkable life.”
Later, Serena shared her personal reflections on Instagram, writing out a heartfelt caption about the moment:
“Last night- I flew to Rhode Island for Maria Sharapova. Maria’s career as her dad put it yesterday- started with me and last night ended with me inducting her into the tennis hall of fame. I’m probably the last person you expected to see standing here tonight. Honestly, a few years ago, I would’ve said the same thing. But years after getting to know her better- we now call each other friends. And when a friend calls you answer. This is women supporting each other and respecting each others greatness. Congratulations @mariasharapova it is my honor — as her former rival, her forever fan, and now, her forever friend — to welcome Maria Sharapova into the International Tennis Hall of Fame.”
Serena Williams also recently spoke out about her body amid speculation.