Serena Williams waved farewell to the US Open after losing to Australia's Ajla Tomljanovic in her last match ever.
Serena ended her 27-year career on Friday, September 2, having won 23 major singles and becoming one of the greatest of all time.
The 40-year-old athlete tried to make a comeback in the match after winning the second set but lost 7-5, 6-7 (4-7), 6-1.
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Williams started her tennis career at the age of 14 when she played in her first professional tournament in 1995.
After the match Williams noted that she was playing her way into retirement, adding that she was not sure of what the future held for her.
In an emotional interview after the match, Williams thanked her family, team and fans for the support accorded to her over the years.
"I thank everyone that's here, that's been on my side so many years, decades. Oh my gosh, literally decades.
"But it all started with my parents. And they deserve everything. So, I'm really grateful for them.
"And I wouldn't be Serena if there wasn't Venus, so thank you, Venus. She's the only reason that Serena Williams ever existed," Williams stated.
Various public figures including US former first lady Michele Obama and Tennis legend Tiger woods congratulated Williams for her success in her long career.
“Congrats on an amazing career, Serena Williams, how lucky were we to be able to watch a young girl from Compton grow up to become one of the greatest athletes of all time.
“I'm proud of you, my friend—and I can't wait to see the lives you continue to transform with your talents,” Michelle Obama's tweet read.
“What a run. Serena Williams will be leaving behind an extraordinary tennis career that challenged the double standard between male and female players. I look forward to watching her continue building her amazing legacy off the court,” Bill Gates's tweet read.
“Serena Williams you’re literally the greatest on and off the court. Thank you for inspiring all of us to pursue our dreams. I love you, little sis,” Tiger Wood's tweet read.
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