Serena Williams retired from the US Open and professional tennis with a third round defeat to Ajla Tomljanovic. The performance of the 23-time Grand Slam title winner and six-time New York champion against Danka Kovinic and Anett Kontaveit had given hope to the tens of thousands who flocked to Flushing Meadows in hopes that her swan song might have a great ending. fable. But, despite a memorable comeback in the second set, there was no record with Williams losing 7-5 6-7 (4) 6-1. The nearly 41-year-old, who played her first game as a pro in 1995, calmly walked to the net after scoring the last straight, before greeting her as the song ‘Simply The Best’ played over the speakers. Addressing the crowd in tears, Williams said, “Thank you so much, you were great. I tried. Thanks Dad, I know you’re looking at me. Thanks Mom.” “I thank everyone who is here, who have been by my side for many years, literally decades, but it all started with my parents and all my gratitude goes to them. And I wouldn’t be Serena if Venus wasn’t there, so thank you Venus . It was a fun trip, “he said. Asked if she was willing to reconsider the announced intention to withdraw from tournaments, she replied: “I don’t think so, but you never know.”