The entire sports world tuned in to watch what could have been Serena Williams’ final singles match on Wednesday night, and she did not shrink from their gaze.
Instead, Williams continued what is widely considered her swan song tournament at the US Open by upending world No. 2 Anett Kontaveit in three sets, 7-6(4), 2-6, 6-2. Williams showed resilience throughout, not only to win a tiebreak in the first set but also to put aside a demoralizing second set to thoroughly dominate her opponent in the third.
MORE: Serena has an awesome breakdown of her win: ‘I’m just Serena’
Her victory, naturally, is one of the biggest storylines of the US Open, considering her quest for a 24th women’s Grand Slam title is still alive and well. But more than that, people simply want to witness — and pay homage to — one of the sport’s greatest competitors.
Indeed, one of Williams’ close friends, Tiger Woods, was in attendance and was naturally excited to see her succeed:
.@SerenaWilliams bringing Tiger to his feet 💪 pic.twitter.com/dHl9HFBDnr
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) September 1, 2022
Tiger wasn’t the only one paying respect to Williams’ greatness Wednesday. LeBron James added to his Instagram story to give Williams her due.
Below are some of the more notable reactions from throughout the sports world as Williams continues her run at the US Open:
Sports world reacts to Serena Williams’ second-round win at US Open 2022
It was a privilege to watch greatness. Congrats @serenawilliams
— Tiger Woods (@TigerWoods) September 1, 2022
Fist bump after the W 💫 @BillieJeanKing @serenawilliams pic.twitter.com/5uZ1j3euBL
— ESPN (@espn) September 1, 2022
Serena + #USOpen tennis fans = magic. pic.twitter.com/5muJoEKRCQ
— Billie Jean King (@BillieJeanKing) September 1, 2022
What is in the water Bron, Serena, and TB12 drinking!? At this point I’m just curious! 🤣
— Tyrese Maxey (@TyreseMaxey) September 1, 2022
Not done yet @serenawilliams 🙏🏽
— Stephen Curry (@StephenCurry30) September 1, 2022
🐐🐐🐐 #Serena
— Patrick Mahomes II (@PatrickMahomes) September 1, 2022
I’m not sure we’ve seen a whole city, maybe even a whole country, pull for anyone like we’re pulling for Serena Williams. #USOpen
— Emmanuel Acho (@EmmanuelAcho) September 1, 2022
Serena! Amazing! #USOpen
— Manu Ginobili (@manuginobili) September 1, 2022
Never underestimate the heart of a GOAT…..NEVER!! @serenawilliams we are loving it!
— dawnstaley (@dawnstaley) September 1, 2022
Never seen anything like what Serena Williams is doing!!! EVERYBODY EVERYWHERE is cheering for her and watching every moment!! I’m a fan and enjoying every minute!!! @serenawilliams 🐐🐐🐐 #USOpen2022
— Chris Paul (@CP3) September 1, 2022
Hits: 0
