From LeBron James to Tiger Woods, global tribute to Serena Williams

“Congratulations on an incredible career, Serena,” is the most recurring phrase on Twitter.

At the end of an unrepeatable career of 23 Slam titles, 319 weeks spent at the top of the WTA rankings, and many other records that may never be surpassed, Serena Williams had her ‘last dance’ on the Arthur Ashe Stadium court in front of more than 23,000 emotional and moved spectators at the end of the match she played and lost to Ajla Tomljanovic.

Metabolized by emotion after her farewell to the New York audience, the multi-decorated U.S. tennis player cashed in on the tribute of so many sports personalities and others who wanted to salute her achievements and celebrate her greatness.

“You are literally the greatest on and off the court. Thank you for inspiring all of us to chase our dreams. Love you sis!” wrote Tiger Woods on social media. He is echoed by LeBron James, who says on Instagram, “Thank you Serena, you rock!” and even Michelle Obama, the former U.S. First Lady, who reserves a tearful message for her, “Congratulations on an incredible career Serena. We have been blessed to have been able to watch a little girl from Compton grow into one of the greatest athletes of all time. I am proud of you my friend and look forward to following the lives you continue to transform with your many talents.”

There could be no shortage of pirmi tributes from the tennis world, including from former tennis players such as Andy Roddick, who writes, “I adore you Serena, it has been the greatest pleasure of my life watching you play and become who you are today. I look forward to following your next steps. Thank you old friend.”