Maria Sharapova, fresh off her induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame, honored her former rival by attending Venus Williams’ US Open comeback match, celebrating the lasting legacy of two legends who defined women’s tennis in the 2000s.
Highlights:
- Sharapova inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame just days ago.
- She attended Venus Williams’ first-round match at the 2025 US Open.
- Williams, 45, returned after 16 months away from competitive tennis.
- Venus fell to 11th seed Karolína Muchová in a hard-fought three-set encounter.
- The two legends’ rivalry in the 2000s shaped women’s tennis history.
Just days after being inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame, Maria Sharapova made a stylish appearance at the US Open, attending Venus Williams’ first-round clash. Both Maria Sharapova and the Williams sisters were dominant forces in women’s tennis during the 2000s, making her presence at a former rival’s match a heartwarming sight.
After a 16-month hiatus, Williams made her comeback with a wild card entry into the tournament she had once conquered in 2000 and 2001. The 45-year-old battled 11th seed Karolína Muchová, dropping the first set 6-3 before rallying brilliantly to claim the second 6-2. However, Muchová proved too strong in the final set, winning 6-1 and ending Williams’ campaign in the opening round.
Despite the loss, Williams’ return and Sharapova’s support reflected the enduring respect and legacy of two great champions of the sport.