Tennis fans were in for a surprise when Serena Williams stepped onto the stage to introduce longtime rival Maria Sharapova into the International Tennis Hall of Fame. What once was one of the fiercest rivalries in women’s tennis has now evolved into a genuine friendship built on respect and admiration.
Williams reflected on their battles, calling their rivalry “electric and iconic.” She admitted that while their matches were filled with tension and intensity, they both shared the same drive—to be the best. Despite Serena’s dominant 20–2 record over Sharapova, she revealed that Sharapova always pushed her to raise her game.
Sharapova, in turn, praised Williams for sharpening her identity as a competitor, crediting her rival-turned-friend with inspiring her to reach new heights. In her induction speech, she highlighted that Serena’s presence motivated her more than anyone else, even joking that Williams may have won the “speech competition” as well.
Their friendship began to blossom after they crossed paths at events like the MET Gala, away from the pressures of the court. Serena compared Sharapova to her sister Venus, calling her loyal and honest, while Sharapova said they were “cut from the same cloth,” shaped by fathers who pushed them to greatness. Now, what began as fierce rivalry has grown into lasting friendship—one that both champions say they deeply value.
