VP, Tiger Woods, Steph Curry react
September 1, 2022
Politicians, sports stars and celebrities packed into Arthur Ashe Stadium at the 2022 U.S. Open on Wednesday night to witness what could have been the final tennis match of Serena Williams’ legendary career.
Instead, spectators were in for a display of sheer brilliance from Williams, who upset No. 2 seed Anett Kontaveit of Estonia 7-6, 2-6, 6-2 in a second round three-set thriller.
“I’m loving this crowd. It’s really fantastic,” Williams said. “There’s still a little left in me.”
Wednesday’s crowd included Tiger Woods, who sat alongside Williams’ family in her player’s box and even gave his signature fist pump in celebration during her win.
“He’s one of the reasons I’m here,” Williams said. “One of the main reasons I’m still playing.”
“It was a privilege to watch greatness,” Woods tweeted afterwards. “Congrats.”
OPINION: Serena Williams extends US Open party with three-set upset win
Stars that weren’t able to attend the U.S. Open in person took to social media to celebrate Williams and applaud her effort, including Vice President Kamala Harris.
“Thank you @SerenaWilliams for inspiring people around the world with your talent, grace, and determination both on and off the court,” Harris tweeted. “We celebrate all that you have been, all that you are, and all that is to come.”
Chris Paul said he’s “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!!!” he tweeted, alongside several goat emojis.
Stephen Curry, fresh off his graduation from Davidson College, tweeted: “Not done yet.”
Allyson Felix referred to Williams as “the Greatest,” adding the hashtag: #ThankYouSerena. Patrick Mahomes also tweeted multiple goat emojis.
Dawn Staley tweeted, “Never underestimate the heart of a GOAT….. NEVER!! @serenawilliams we are loving it!”
