Frances Tiafoe reflects on inspirational friendship with Serena Williams

In a recent interview, U.S. tennis star Frances Tiafoe reflected on what being friends with Serena Williams meant ahead of her retirement announcement.

After Serena Williams announced her retirement from the tennis world in Vogue, in her own words, using a full-page front cover spread — saying goodbye the way only icons can — the tennis world began to process a court without Serena.

Of course, Williams made it clear that the US Open will be her last big hurrah, and U.S. tennis star Frances Tiafoe will be there with her to celebrate.

“We hitting US Open for sure big sis,” Tiafoe said in an Instagram story, tagging Williams.

The well-wishing from Tiafoe is special, as the 24-year-old star is considered one of the next great American tennis players. Beyond that, Williams and Tiafoe have built a friendship over the years, with the two now sharing the same agent.

In a recent interview with FanSided, Tiafoe reflected on how the Williams sisters have changed the game, especially for young Black tennis players to see athletes that look like them.

"“I think they’re just icons in general — I think they have so much crossover. To be able to call them friends is crazy. Me and Serena have the same agent now, and honestly, I don’t think I’d be doing what I’d be doing if it wasn’t for them.I mean, they set such a high precedent. Playing each other at Grand Slam Finals and their whole story, it’s… There were a lot of relatable situations. They built something to make me feel like it is possible, and now, I’m living up to it.If I can ever even have my name in the same sentence as those two, I would say I had a pretty damn good career.”"

Tennis star Frances Tiafoe reflects on friendship with Serena Williams

Although Serena Williams did not participate in the Citi Open, which took place from July 30 to Aug. 7, sister Venus Williams did in her first singles match in over a year.

Back in 2019, Serena and Frances teamed up in a mixed doubles match in a “battle of the legends” versus Roger Federer and Belinda Bencic at the Hopman Cup. This June, Serena prepared for her Wimbledon return by training with Tiafoe in Eastbourne.

The 40-year-old Williams has been a professional tennis player for the past 27 years — longer than Frances has been alive. Her dominance in the sport is difficult to fathom, as Williams has been ranked No. 1 since July 2002. Serena holds the most combined major titles in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles among active players, which will now come to an end after the US Open.

The US Open will take place from Aug. 29 to Sept. 11, and tennis fans have more than ever to look forward to as they watch Serena say goodbye — and watch her friendship with Frances on the courts one last time.