Serena Williams said goodbye on 3rd September 2022 after giving professional tennis over 25 years of her life. As announced earlier, she hung her racket following her US Open run. Hence, the upcoming tournaments will not witness the greatness of the 23-time Grand Slam champion. Though the legacy Williams is leaving behind will undoubtedly stand tall for decades to come.

Her records will keep resonating and acting as a parameter to test the prowess of coming professionals. Further, Williams was the one to whom Martina Navratilova passed the torch. Therefore, seeing her leaving a greater impact than expected, the 18-time Singles Grand Slam champion was overwhelmed with joy. Here’s what she had to say about Serena Williams.

 Navratilova about Serena Williams’ contribution

The veteran has been an observer since the teenage Williams debuted and stormed the courts. Therefore, now that she has completed her run, it was time for the results. And Williams seems to have passed the exam with flying colors. As Navratilova spoke about her legacy, she said, “Bridging so many chasms in the world of sport. She was just a powerful Black woman kicking a**. It really came down to that. ” 

Thereafter the former world number one added, “Not just transcending tennis, but all of sport. Not too many can claim that. And bringing a new generation to the sport. Also, motivating young girls — and boys, too — to not be scared to dream big. She paved the way for so many more.”

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Serena Williams played her last match in the third round against Australian Ajla Tomljanović 5-7 7-6 (4) 6-1. Now the American legend will focus on the second set of her life and keep inspiring young generations by excelling in the business world and becoming an exemplary mother.

Similarities between Navratilova and Williams

Both the tennis aces strengthened the foundation of WTA. They brought several fans to the sport. In fact, Williams’ last tournament’s ticket counters were flooded as soon as she announced her retirement. Though, along with their glory, their problems were also the same.

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Williams has throughout her career faced intense criticism for her physical appearance. And they both went through years of ill remarks, with fans calling them out for having an unfair advantage. However, like Navratilova, Williams stood strong, and with the backing of Navratilova, silenced her critics with every Grand Slam victory.