‘Never, Ever Backing Down’ – Serena Williams’ Final Run at US Open Gets Even More Special as Oprah Winfrey Partakes in an Emotional Homage

Serena Williams is playing in her last tournament. The 40-year-old made an announcement earlier in her interview with Vogue magazine that she will retire at the end of this season. As tributes pour in from different parts of the world, The US Open came up with a special gesture for America’s beloved tennis star.

In a video tribute from the US Open, we can see Serena’s journey over the years, narrated by Oprah Winfrey.

Oprah pays her tribute to Serena Williams

In a heartfelt video posted by the official Twitter account of the US Open, we can see Serena’s inspirational journey. Narrated by the powerful voice of Oprah Winfrey, the video was a fitting tribute to legendary Serena Williams.

The video starts with Serena Williams’ first US Open winning moments from 1999. Oprah praises Serena in the background, saying, “You have given us so much. All we can do is thank you.” The video further shows her six US Open title wins and Oprah adds, “Thank you for making bright lights brighter and the big apple bigger. Thank you for showing us how to be graceful, powerful, fearless. Thank you for dressing to the nines and bringing your dancing shoes.”

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The video later shows Serena making a comeback after the birth of her daughter Olympia. “Thank you for showing us what it means to come back, and never, ever backing down,” Oprah says. She ends her tribute with the words, “Just know, whatever you do next, we will be watching. With love, all of us.”

Serena wins her first-round match

Going into her last Grand Slam, Serena was not in great form. While many might have believed her opening match to be the last of her career, Serena proved them all wrong. The 40-year-old has started her campaign with a brilliant straight-set victory.

Serena completely outclassed her 80th-ranked opponent, Danka Kovinic 6-3, 6-3, advancing to the second round of the tournament. Up next, she will face Anett Kontaveit of Estonia in the second round.

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The way Serena played in her first match, it will be interesting to see if she can go deeper in the tournament. Can Serena do the unthinkable and clinch her 24th Grand Slam title? Let us know in the comments.