Tennis legend Serena Williams returned to the US Open on Sunday, not as a player, but as a spectator.
After retiring in 2022 and not attending the tournament the following year, this was Williams’ first trip to Flushing Meadows since her third-round exit was authored by Ajla Tomljanovic.
Two years later, Williams took to WTA’s Billie Jean King Tennis Center to enjoy Day Seven of the tournament. The six-time US Open winner enjoyed the action with pop star and New York native Alicia Keys.
Besides the duo, several celebrities from different fields were also spotted enjoying the action in Queens.
Songwriter and recording artist John Mayer, who has shared the stage with keys, was present on Sunday. The world of television was also well represented with producer Shonda Rhimes, comedian Stephen Colbert, and SNL cast member Michael Che all in attendance.
Tennis legend Serena Williams was at Day Seven of the 2024 US Open on Sunday
The US Open X account shared a video of Williams celebrating after Grigor Dimitrov secured a fourth-round win over Andrey Rublev.
The Bulgarian later revealed that he spoke to Williams before the five-set triumph. He also discussed the extent of his nervousness from playing in front of his longtime friend.
‘For some reason not in front of her,’ Dimitrov said. ‘She gave me a good pep talk yesterday. Yep, I know, exactly. I’m thrilled.’
‘It’s amazing honestly to play in front of you guys, in front of good friends and family,’ Dimitrov added of playing in front of Williams and Keys. ‘All in all, it’s a tremendous atmosphere so again thank you all. Thank you so much for the support.’
Williams enjoyed the action at Flushing with American singer-songwriter Alicia Keys
Keys’ fellow recording artist John Mayer was also in attendance on Sunday afternoon
Stephen Colbert and Shonda Rhimes were also present during Sunday’s action in Queens
Saturday Night Live’s Michael Che was among a handful of celebrities in attendance
Dimitrov will play the winner between Alexei Popyrin and Frances Tiafoe for a place in the semifinals on Tuesday.
Aside from playing cheerleader for Dimitrov, Williams was also spotted sharing a moment with Taylor Fritz. Her fellow American secured a 3-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-2 win over Casper Rudd and will face Alexander Zverev in Tuesday’s quarterfinal.
Williams ended her legendary career with 73 titles and a 192-35 record. Her decorated trophy case included US Open victories in 1999, 2000, 2008, 2012, 2013 and 2014.
