By Wanique Block
The U.S. Open has paid homage to 23-time Grand slam winner Serena Williams.
Serena, who announced her retirement earlier this month has beat Danka Kovnik of Montenego 6-3; 6-3 during an electrifying opening evening at the U.S. Open.
“I absolutely love being out there. The more tournaments I play, the more I feel I can belong out there”, Serena Williams said after the win.
In an Essay in Vogue magazine, Serena revealed that not only will she be focusing on new business ventures, she also reiterated that she will be focusing on being a mom.
“I’ve been reluctant to admit that I have to move on from playing tennis. It’s like a taboo topic. It comes up, and I start to cry. I think the only person I’ve really gone there with is my therapist”, she said in her essay.
When walking out to the court a huge crowd eagerly welcomed and honoured the legendary tennis player.
Serena wore a self-designed gown and shoes featuring diamonds, crystals and gold.
Her daughter, Olympia wore a matching outfit, and had white beads in her hair, resembling the first time Serena won the U.S. Open in 1999.
After winning the first round Gayle King stepped on court to pay tribute to the 40-year-old tennis player before bringing in Billie Jean King, who said she was wearing pink “because it’s Serena’s favourite colour”.
After Serena speaking to Gayle King and the crowd, the ceremony ended with the entire stadium turning into a sea of blue, with the message, “We love you Serena”, formed in white.
That winning feeling. #Serena pic.twitter.com/xJ4YUdi1Fj
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) August 30, 2022
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