Sharapova, who selected Williams to deliver her induction speech, shared on the Today Show how they managed to conceal Serena’s involvement by giving her the code name “Madonna.”
“When they asked who I wanted to introduce me, Serena was the first person who came to mind,” Sharapova said. “Our friendship has grown so much in recent years. We’ve been to events together, had plenty of conversations, and yes — we gossip all the time. I can’t believe we pulled it off and kept it hidden for months. Her walking on stage was so powerful, and for me, it was truly a full-circle moment.”
Although the two were once fierce rivals — facing off 22 times in their careers, with Williams winning 20 of those encounters — they have built a close bond since retirement.
During her heartfelt speech, Williams expressed how deeply she values their relationship, even comparing Sharapova to her sister Venus.
“She actually reminds me a lot of Venus,” Serena said. “The more I get to know her, the more I feel like she could have been my sister — the calm to my storm, the yin to my yang.”
Both athletes share similar roots, having been coached by their fathers early in their careers. Now, beyond tennis, they’ve each ventured into entrepreneurship, launching and investing in multiple businesses.
Sharapova retired in 2020 with 36 singles titles, including five Grand Slams, while Williams’ legendary career boasts 73 singles titles and 23 Majors. Despite their history as rivals, their evolving friendship highlights a unique story of respect, growth, and shared journeys beyond the court.
