Serena Williams has been called 'the greatest' by fellow star Tiger Woods after seemingly bringing down the curtain on her incredible career at the US Open.
Williams, 40, fought to the end in her 7-5 6-7 [4-7] 6-1 defeat to Ajla Tomljanovic, saving five match points in the final game before finally succumbing to a sixth. And she then bid an emotional farewell on the Arthur Ashe Court, amid a huge reception from the sell-out crowd.
And it wasn't long before big names from both inside and outside of tennis were hailing the 23-time Grand Slam champion. She also won four slam titles in doubles, two in mixed, and four Olympic gold medals.
"You’re literally the greatest on and off the court," tweeted Woods, who was seen passionately supporting his friend during her second round win over Anett Kontaveit. "Thank you for inspiring all of us to pursue our dreams. I love you little sis!!!!!!"
The pair were mentioned in the same breath by ESPN reporter Stephen Holder, who wrote: "In my lifetime, I saw Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods and Serena Williams in their primes. There’s absolutely no way I deserved that."
Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar also paid a glowing tribute, writing: "Age is not what the body tells you, but what your mind tells the body. Teenagers can solve world’s biggest problems, adults can pick up something new and excel. Sport inspires society to push limits and achieve the impossible. Congratulations on an inspiring career, Serena Williams."
Gymnast Simone Biles posted: "Thank you Serena Williams for transcending sports for black athletes, female athletes and every athlete such a pleasure to watch, thanks for being an inspiration," while the official US Open account uploaded a montage with the message "What a ride it’s been."
Earlier in the evening, following his own defeat, Andy Murray had told reporters that Williams "will go down as one of the best tennis players to have ever played," while Coco Gauff, who won her own third round match on the Arthur Ashe before Williams entered the arena, said "It's an honour to open up the court for her."
It wasn't just sporting personnel paying the respects though, with Michelle Obama tweeting: "Congrats on an amazing career, Serena Williams ! How lucky were we to be able to watch a young girl from Compton grow up to become one of the greatest athletes of all time. I'm proud of you, my friend—and I can't wait to see the lives you continue to transform with your talents."
