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Remember when Serena Williams praised Roger Federer in 2021, declaring herself his superfan? The tennis world buzzed, not only because of one legend honoring another but also due to the humility and respect Serena showed for Federer, despite her own formidable status.
Their mutual iration was a refreshing sight in a sport often characterized by fierce rivalries. Today, even after both legends have retired, Serena's iration for Federer remains strong.
Serena Williams and Roger Federer: A parallel journey
In the latest docies, In the Arena: Serena Williams, viewers are given an intimate glimpse into Serena Williams's life. The series, recently updated with a new episode by ESPN, reveals Serena's ongoing iration for her Swiss counterpart, Roger Federer.
In the docies, Serena discusses the strange connection she felt with Federer throughout their careers.
"My career was weirdly parallel with Roger Federer. He and I were the same age, and I always looked up to Roger in a way. He always knew how to handle every single situation, and he always knew how to win. I would study his game and say, 'How do I hit the ball early? How do I move like that?'" Williams declared.
Federer's graceful movement on the court, marked by his small controlled steps, was a key to his success and something Serena ired deeply.
Federer's influence on Williams' career
Continuing in the series, Williams candidly expressed how Federer influenced her approach to her own career.
"I was so afraid to reach 30. I was like, oh, my goodness, my career is going to be over because I never thought I would play past 30," she added.
"I really felt this weird unspoken connection to Roger that I can't explain. I always thought if Roger could do it, I could do it."
This connection between the two legends is more than just iration, it's a shared experience. Both athletes dominated their respective circuits, with Serena claiming 23 Grand Slam titles and Federer securing 20. They both excelled on grass courts and, in a poetic twist, both retired in September 2022.