The first day of 2019 had something extra special in store for Tennis fans around the world. A mixed doubles match between Serena Williams and Roger Federer courtesy of the Hopman Cup in Perth, Australia. Both the legends were representing their respective countries USA and Switzerland. Serena’s partner was Frances Tiafoe while Roger played with Belinda Bencic.
And *spoiler alert* the Swiss team won the match 2-1.
The GOAT face-off was an absolute pleasure to watch. But what delighted fans more, was the post-match interview. Both legends couldn’t stop applauding each other’s serves and showed tremendous respect for each other’s game.
23 time Grand Slam winner, Serena Williams praised her opponent by saying,
“His serve is super underrated. There is a reason why he is the greatest because you can’t be that great and not have such an awesome weapon.”
With 20 Grand Slams under his belt, Roger Federer wasn’t shy with his praise either. He remarked,
“It was great great fun. She is a great champion and you see how focused and determined she is and I love that about her.”
Watch the full interview for serious feels!
The Twitterati gave a huge thumbs up to this interaction. There was gratitude from every corner and some even proclaimed their photo to be the ‘Selfie of the year’.
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When 2 icons meet
I'm not a tennis fan but that doesn't stop me from being a huge Serena fan. I'm laughing/crying watching the interaction.
So amazing💕😍!!!
— Beckii❤💕🌊🌊 (@Beckiiluv) January 2, 2019
2. GOAT Fan Club
Are they each other’s fan club president??? 😭😭 so cute
— ❤️Empty the Prisons (@SJW_Hoe) January 1, 2019
3. Hats off
— loourve 💛 (@Loourve) January 1, 2019
4. Upholding the spirit of the game
That was absolutely awesome to watch! The love, respect and mutual admiration that they have for one another is so evident! I loved this!
— Leonard A. Smith (@LeonardASmith2) January 1, 2019
5. Only Love
Federer: I was nervous returning because people talk about her serve so much and I see why. Her serve is so great you can’t read it.
Serena: I can’t read yours either
It’s just a nice Tennis love-fest for these two.pic.twitter.com/ISDN1DEaQZ #HopmanCup
— Omawumi O (@ormainy) January 1, 2019
Which two sporting legends would you like to see battle it out on-court next? Tell us.