Serena: People see me and Sharapova as rivals, but that’s not true; I still have fond memories of tennis.

Just yesterday, five-time Grand Slam champion Maria Sharapova was officially inducted into the Tennis Hall of Fame. Yet, at the ceremony, an unexpected moment moved everyone: 23-time Grand Slam winner Serena Williams appeared as the presenter, personally welcoming her former “rival” Sharapova into the sport’s highest honor.

Since the 2004 Wimbledon final, these two tennis legends were rumored to have a rivalry, and their connections with Dimitrov added fuel to the speculation. Their intense on-court battles were always charged with tension and drew great attention. However, time has passed; both have retired and become mothers, and past conflicts have now faded away.

Serena’s introduction was heartfelt and touching: “Maria and I were once rivals, and there were disagreements between us. To the world, we appeared completely different. But that’s not the case. We both desired the same thing: to be the best players. That’s why our competition was so fierce yet so iconic.”

“A few months ago, Maria messaged me saying she needed to talk,” Serena shared at the ceremony. “When she asked if I would endorse her Hall of Fame induction, before she even finished the question, I had already said yes—loudly, without hesitation, and sincerely: yes.”

This statement reveals the unique respect and understanding among top athletes, showcasing the maturity and wisdom that time brings.

From former rivals to current friends, all past grudges have been left behind, moving many fans to tears. One wrote: “I almost cried seeing Serena show up! This is the true spirit of a champion, paying tribute to an opponent while highlighting the essence of the sport.” Another tennis fan commented: “Who would have thought we’d witness this day? Serena and Sharapova sharing such a warm moment! That’s the magic of sports—friendship beyond competition is even more touching.”

Former pro James Blake remarked, “This shows tennis is more than just a sport; it’s a family. Rivalries are temporary, but respect lasts forever.” Sports commentator Mark Peterson added, “This moment is significant for tennis, demonstrating how fierce competition and post-retirement respect can beautifully coexist.”

With Serena Williams’ appearance at the Hall of Fame ceremony, speculation about her possible return to the court has intensified again.

In July this year, she posted a training video on Instagram with a simple cartoon and the caption “Still Serena,” sparking widespread social media buzz. In the video, the 43-year-old Serena looked sharp, moved smoothly, and returned serves with ease. Venus Williams’ response to questions about her sister’s comeback seemed to confirm the possibility of the champion’s return.

“She could take six months off and still hit the ball cleanly—that kind of talent can’t be taught; she’s just that exceptional,” Venus said, jokingly adding, “Tennis is an amazing aerobic workout; it really strengthens your legs and arms.”

Regarding a comeback, Serena said she doesn’t get tired of seeing fans hoping for her return. However, she also mentioned she doesn’t pay much attention to the online rumors because she doesn’t take them to heart.

She openly expressed her feelings for tennis: “I do miss tennis. A part of me will always long for the sport because when you spend your life chasing a goal and one day wake up to find it gone, it’s a huge change.” Yet she also said, “I have so many wonderful memories; those shining moments are my comfort.”

This conflicting feeling is perhaps a common emotional journey for many great athletes after retirement.

The 45-year-old American veteran Venus Williams is still active in tennis and will compete in the first round of the US Open singles tomorrow, highlighting the longevity of her career. Looking ahead, we might also see Serena’s return, perhaps in a legends event, an exhibition, or even a tour-level tournament—anything is possible! After all, the legendary champion has always denied that she has “retired” from tennis.

After her first-round match at the Washington Open, Venus said, “She could rest for six months and still hit the ball cleanly; that talent can’t be taught... If she were here, it would be perfect—we used to compete together.”(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Lu Xiaotian)