Serena Williams’ journey is one of the hardest in sports history. Once criticized for her build, her intensity, and even her gender, she turned that pain into dominance, becoming one of the greatest athletes of all time. The “then” shows a champion already carrying the world on her shoulders; the “now” shows a woman who has reshaped herself again, focusing on health, balance, and longevity beyond tennis. Her achievement is proving that true greatness evolves—it doesn’t end when the game does.

Last night- I flew to Rhode Island for Maria Sharapova. Maria’s career as her dad put it yesterday- started with me and last night ended with me inducting her into the tennis hall of fame. I’m probably the last person you expected to see standing here tonight . Honestly, a few years ago, I would’ve said the same thing. But years after getting to know her better- we now call each other friends. And when a friend calls you answer. This is women supporting each other and respecting each others greatness. Congratulations @mariasharapova with is my honor — as her former rival, her forever fan, and now, her forever friend — to welcome Maria Sharapova into the International Tennis Hall of Fame.