Maria Sharapova Reveals How Longtime Rival Serena Williams ‘Showed Up Big Time’ for Her Hall of Fame Induction (Exclusive

Maria Sharapova Reveals How Longtime Rival Serena Williams ‘Showed Up Big Time’ for Her Hall of Fame Induction (Exclusive)

 

Maria Sharapova’s induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame was always going to be a special moment, but what made it truly unforgettable was the presence of her fiercest rival—and, surprisingly, one of her biggest supporters—Serena Williams.

 

Speaking exclusively after the ceremony, Sharapova opened up about the emotional night and the unexpected show of solidarity from Williams. For years, the two dominated headlines as rivals, their on-court battles often defined by intensity, drama, and contrasting personalities. Yet, as Sharapova revealed, their relationship has quietly evolved into one of mutual respect.

 

“When Serena walked in, it honestly meant the world,” Sharapova said. “People know us as rivals, and of course we pushed each other to the limit. But in that room, it wasn’t about rivalry—it was about respect, history, and the journey we both shared. Serena showed up big time for me, and I’ll never forget that.”

 

Sharapova admitted that seeing Williams at her induction caught her off guard. “It’s not every day that someone you’ve competed against for nearly two decades shows up