Serena Williams’ Final Match: A Photographic Tribute

The End of an Era: Serena Williams’ Historic Tennis Career

The sun has set on Serena Williams’ historic tennis career.

The 40-year-old legend, who expressed her intent to “evolve away” from the sport after the US Open, lost her third-round match on Friday, falling 7-5, 6-7 (4), 6-1 to Australia’s Ajla Tomljanović.

“Thank you so much. You guys were amazing today,” she told the crowd in an on-court interview following the match. “It’s been a fun ride.”

Throughout her illustrious career, Williams won 23 Grand Slam singles titles, holding the record for the most in the Open era, and standing just one title behind the all-time record held by Margaret Court. Additionally, she secured four Olympic gold medals and earned over $94.5 million in prize money.

Moreover, she and her older sister, Venus, revolutionized the sport when they emerged as professionals in their teenage years. Together, they’ve claimed numerous Grand Slam doubles titles, winning 14 titles collectively.

The two sisters had a touching reunion on the court Thursday during a first-round doubles match against Lucie Hradecká and Linda Nosková, though they lost 7-6 (5), 6-4.

People cheer on Williams at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
People cheer on Williams at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Shannon Stapleton/Reuters
Williams reacts after losing to Ajla Tomljanović on Friday. 'These are happy tears,' Williams said during her on-court interview.
Williams reacts after losing to Ajla Tomljanović on Friday. ‘These are happy tears,’ Williams said during her on-court interview.

During the match, which extended just over three hours, Williams faced tremendous challenges yet showcased her resilience by fighting off five match points in the final game.

Williams motions a heart to her fans after the match.
Williams motions a heart to her fans after the match.
Williams shakes hands with Tomljanović after the match.
Williams shakes hands with Tomljanović after the match. Simon Bruty/USTA/AP
Williams returns a shot on Friday. The match lasted a little more than three hours, and Williams fought off five match points in the final game.
Williams returns a shot on Friday. The match lasted a little more than three hours, and Williams fought off five match points in the final game.
Fans cheer on Williams on Friday.
Fans cheer on Williams on Friday. Corey Sipkin/AFP/Getty Images
Williams serves during Friday's match.
Williams serves during Friday’s match. Simon Bruty/USTA/AP
Williams' coach, Rennae Stubbs, and mother, Oracene Price, watch on Friday.
Williams’ coach, Rennae Stubbs, and mother, Oracene Price, watch on Friday. Mike Segar/Reuters
Williams returns a shot on Friday.
Williams returns a shot on Friday. Julian Finney/Getty Images

Conclusion

Serena Williams leaves behind an indelible legacy in the world of tennis, characterized by her remarkable achievements, groundbreaking influence, and unwavering spirit. As her career comes to a close, fans around the globe reflect on the countless memories she has provided on and off the court.


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