“I’m very sad to do this,” Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic said in their tributes to their dear friend and fellow tennis
legend, Serena Williams. Each of them spoke with profound respect and heartfelt emotion, reflecting on the impact Serena has had on
their lives and the sport of tennis as a whole.
Roger Federer, known for his graceful play and sportsmanship, expressed his deep sorrow over Serena’s departure from professional
tennis. “Serena has been more than just a competitor; she has been an inspiration and a trailblazer for the sport,” Federer said. “Her
passion, resilience, and unmatched talent have pushed us all to be better. I have always admired her for her determination on the
court and her grace off it. It is hard to imagine the sport without her, but her legacy will continue to inspire future generations.”
Rafael Nadal, whose fierce rivalries with Serena were a highlight of their careers, shared his thoughts with equal reverence. “Serena
Williams is a true icon of our sport. Her strength and incredible achievements have set a standard that few can match,” Nadal
remarked. “We have had many battles on the court, and every match against her was a reminder of her greatness. Off the court, she
has shown incredible courage and has been a role model for many. While I am saddened by her decision to step away, I celebrate her
remarkable career and the impact she has had on tennis.”
Novak Djokovic, who has often found himself in awe of Serena’s dominance and tenacity, also paid tribute to the tennis legend.
“Serena’s influence on the sport has been monumental,” Djokovic said. “Her competitive spirit, extraordinary skill, and determination
have made her one of the greatest athletes of all time. It is difficult to put into words the mark she has left on tennis and on all of us
who have had the privilege of playing against her. Her legacy will live on, and we will always cherish the moments we shared on the
court.”
The tributes from Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic underscore the profound respect and admiration they have for Serena Williams. As
they reflect on her storied career, it is clear that Serena’s impact extends far beyond her remarkable achievements and victories. She
has set a high bar for excellence in tennis, and her presence in the sport will be deeply missed.
