STORY: It was probably the last major appearance of the 23-time Grand Slam winner Serena Williams. The tennis legend from the USA lost her third-round match at the US Open against Australian Ajila Tomljanoic and thus said goodbye to the international sports scene. The fans at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York celebrated the 40-year-old extensively. And she was moved to tears: “It all started with my parents, it’s all their merit, I’m really very grateful to them, I think these are tears of joy, and there would be no Serena if there hadn’t been Venus. Thank you Venus You are the only reason Serena Williams ever existed It was a fun journey.” Numerous fans of Serena Williams had also gathered in front of the stadium. For her, an era came to an end with the game in New York: “She made the decision and she is at the peak of her career, at 40 she is still one of the greatest athletes in the world. We are despite the result really proud of her.” She’s the greatest of all time. I don’t think anyone will ever be able to match their legacy. I think what she has achieved is unprecedented in the sport. Whether woman or man. We’re so proud of her.” Williams had announced her retirement a few weeks ago. The day before her defeat in singles, she and her sister Venus Williams had already left what was probably their last joint professional appearance in doubles.