Imagine the sun setting behind the big area of Flushing Meadows. A huge stadium where the US Open is happening. Every year, for a long time, the tournament has looked a certain way for the American crowd. But this year, things feel a bit different. The formidable Serena Williams isn’t here. Fans have been left devastated since her retirement after last year’s US Open. Her absence at US Open ’23 has been very clearly palpable.

With a microphone in hand, Jessica Elbaba, a former professional player now covering the event for NBC Sports as a journalist, ventured outside the stadium to capture the pulse of the fans and their reflections on Serena’s absence.

Serena Williams’ absence and the rise of new stars

When asked about the vibe at Ashe Stadium without Serena Williams there, a fan shared, “I mean she’s the GOAT, She is the greatest. When she’s not here it’s like ehhh. We love her and we definitely miss her presence.” This pretty much sums up how many fans feel. Serena Williams was not just a tennis player; she was a symbol of greatness and a living example of a rags-to-riches story. But it was her elder sister who carried the hopes of the nostalgic home crowd.

After the fans shared their hurt over Serena’s absence, they were also asked about what kind of run Venus Williams could possibly make this year. To this, the general ethos prevailed: fans await the first match eagerly, for they are ready to wait till the end to see Queen V’s glory.

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As the legendary players gradually step back from the game, a fresh chapter unfurls. Players like Iga Swiatek, Aryna Sabalenka, Elena Rybakina, and Coco Gauff are making a name for themselves. Iga Swiatek won the US Open last year and has already won four major tournaments at the tender age of 22. Swiatek believes that tennis is always changing, and there’s space for new champions.

Redefining tennis’s landscape amidst change and continuity

In the space left by Serena Williams, a new group of talented players is stepping up. These young stars are changing the way tennis looks. Iga Swiatek exemplifies this fresh wave of positivity. She recognizes the ever-changing nature of tennis, where there’s a constant opportunity for new talents to rise and shine. AP News reported as Swiatek put forth her perspective candidly, “Tennis is evolving and constantly changing, and there is always room for new players, new champions.”

However, while the players who were great in the past step aside for the new ones, there isn’t a clear new leader like Serena Williams just yet. But even with this change happening, there’s something very clear and noticeable shifting in the way things are. Who do you think has the potential to dominate the circuit in the next few years? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

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