Serena Williams Returns to US Open for First Time Since Last Match

Serena Williams made a nostalgic return to the US Open this weekend, though not as a competitor. The legendary player, who boasts an impressive record of 23 Grand Slam singles titles, came back to Flushing Meadows to watch the tournament unfold.

On this occasion, Williams sported a denim skirt reminiscent of the style she wore during her appearances in New York back in 2004. Her visit marked her first return to the US Open since 2022, when she participated in what turned out to be the final tournament of her illustrious career.

In her last appearance, Williams reached the third round before being eliminated by Ajla Tomljanovic. At that time, she avoided labeling her exit as retirement, instead referring to it as an “evolving” away from the sport that has defined her life for so many years.

Since hanging up her racket, Williams has kept herself busy with various projects. She has been focused on her business ventures and recently signed a new book deal. Additionally, she has been involved in producing a documentary series airing on ESPN. To top it off, Williams hosted the ESPYS in July and celebrated the birth of her second daughter a year ago, adding yet another dimension to her post-tennis life.

At 42 years old, Williams still possesses a remarkable legacy, having won six singles championships at the US Open, a record she shares with Chris Evert. This past Saturday, she found herself enjoying the action from a suite in Arthur Ashe Stadium while witnessing Jannik Sinner, the top-ranked male player, secure a straight-set victory over Christopher O’Connell in the third round.

During her time at the event, Williams explored the grounds, taking a moment to catch American Tommy Paul’s match at Louis Armstrong Stadium. She also paid a visit to the players’ gym, where she had the opportunity to connect with the current women’s No. 1 player, Iga Swiatek, who was set to compete later that night.

One of Williams’ close friends, Caroline Wozniacki, the 2018 Australian Open champion and former world No. 1, expressed her delight after winning her own match to advance to the fourth round. In a light-hearted tone, Wozniacki mentioned she was a bit disappointed not to spot Williams in the stands during her match.

With a laugh, Wozniacki said, “I’m going to text her. I’m pretty mad at her for not showing up at my match. … I think we have to talk about that a little bit later.” The camaraderie and friendship between the two stars drew attention, as they reminisced about their time on the courts.

Williams’ visit to the US Open served as a reminder of her contributions to the sport and the way she connected with fellow players and fans alike. Even in absence from the competitive arena, her presence at such events continues to inspire and uplift current generations of Tennis professionals.

While her active playing days may be behind her, Serena Williams remains an iconic figure in Tennis history, and her influence in both sport and business is far from over. Her appearance at the US Open not only signifies a physical return but also embodies her ongoing legacy in the world of sports.