Naomi Osaka explains the 'privilege' of watching Serena Williams live again

Osaka was a former rival of Williams in her twilight years. The two have played four times against each other in high-pressure scenarios. Osaka took three of them, winning her first WTA title and first Grand Slam title against Williams.

Osaka was not the only one to have serenaded Williams, who for sure has made a lot of peers in her nearly three-decade career in professional tennis.

Novak Djokovic talked about Serena’s legacy following his match against Stefanos Tsitsipas. Meanwhile, the likes of Coco Gauff finished her dinner early, and Taylor Townsend tuned in from the physio table to watch Williams live. Andy Roddick’s wife, Brooklyn Decker, also showed her support in an Instagram story.

But Serena’s biggest support system was right at home, as her husband, Alexis Ohanian, wrote an emotional message following her first-round loss at Wimbledon.

Alexis Ohanian Sends His Love to Serena Williams After Early Wimbledon Exit

Only Serena Williams would have been able to keep expectations from fans even after coming back from a four-year break. While she lost in three sets, she showed grit and earned the respect of all once again at 44 years of age.

Following the loss, Ohanian shared an emotional note for the 44-year-old, exuding pride in her. Taking to Instagram, he posted a series of photos of their daughters watching Williams compete from the stands.

The post also featured Olympia and Adira Ohanian holding handmade signs in support of their mother.

“Our little family is so proud of you @serenawilliams – even though it wasn’t the outcome you wanted, you’re an inspiration. We love you. @olympiaohanian @adiraohanian are also happy they got to stay up a bit past their bedtime

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It is worth noting that one of the main reasons Serena returned was because of her children, whom she wanted to help understand that it is never too late to chase something you love.

Following the game, Serena also revealed on Instagram that she tweaked her right knee, but wants to fight through it to be available to team up with sister Venus Williams for some women’s doubles action against Camila Osorio and Solana Sierra in the first round.