Does the WTA legend Serena Williams have a favorite tennis player? If you think it is someone like the ATP number one or two, you are entirely mistaken. Williams admires her former junior from the Patrick Mouratoglou Academy, Stefanos Tsitsipas. Recently, Tsitsipas joined her in a live session and his expression clearly reflected how he feels similar admiration for the 23 Grand Slam champion.

Williams and Tsitsipas enjoyed a fun conversation during the former’s live session on TikTok. The Olympic gold-medalist legend started a live chat session with her followers regarding a new product’s launch from her beauty brand, WYN Beauty. To Williams’ delight, the Greek player joined the session – showcasing the strong bond between them. The former WTA number one also mentioned Tsitsipas as one of her favorite players, highlighting her admiration for the Greek’s playstyle. When Tsitsipas reached his second major final at the 2023 Australian Open, Williams congratulated him, showcasing how closely she follows the ATP number eleven’s growth. After their candid conversation in this live session, filled with laughter, it was clear that their rapport remained just as strong as it was before.

At one point, Williams playfully asked Tsitsipas, “Oh, have I ever played Tsitsipas?” The ATP star, blushingly replied, “Yeah,” his eyes rolling in excitement. As Williams reminisced about their time on the court, Tsitsipas, with a grin, posed a question: “Does Copa Cup count? Does an exhibition count?” The Olympic gold-medalist legend cheekily responded, “Did I win in that exhibition?” Tsitsipas blushed and shook his head, persuading Williams to ask again, “No?” The moment was finally sealed when Tsitsipas, in a fanboy moment, hid his face under the camera, clearly embarrassed by the legendary icon Serena Williams’ intrigue.

The ATP number eleven later joked, “But you aced me—I will never forget that. That was the only time in my life that I got aced by a WTA player.” At this, Williams brimming with joy, raised her arms in celebration. On the other side, Tsitsipas also expressed his eagerness to try Williams’ new WYN Beauty product, further showcasing his admiration for the tennis legend’s multitalented personality.

Now, their relationship goes way back. Williams and Tsitsipas had trained together at the Patrick Mouratoglou Academy for some time. The ATP star has often shared how deeply he idealizes Williams, even posting a heartwarming statement on her retirement, expressing that his respect for the WTA legend would never diminish.

Stefanos Tsitipas has “a lot of respect” for Serena Williams’ legacy

Tsitsipas had the sweetest message for the 23-time Grand Slam champion when she retired from the professional tour. Referring to his admiration, Tsitsipas wrote, “Hey Serena, I’d like to congratulate you on an amazing career. You’re probably the only female player that has aced me in a match, so congratulations for that too—wasn’t very entertaining for me!” His words reflected a deep sense of respect. He continued, “But I have lots of respect for what you’ve done for the sport. I’m more than inspired to have shared a fair amount of time with you on the tour. Good luck on the next chapter, and make sure to return with Olympia as her coach one day.” His message radiated pure love.

Interestingly, Tsitsipas also had a compliment for Mother Serena. “And obviously, the most important thing—you’re a great mother. I’ve been seeing that over the last couple of years. Stay happy and enjoy your moments off tour,” he said, highlighting how he sees Williams as the OG queen of the sport.

Serena Williams and Stefanos Tsitsipas share a mutual admiration for each other. While receiving compliments from an icon like Williams is no easy feat, Tsitsipas has proven that with enough hard work, one can earn it. What are your thoughts?