From Rivals to Friends: Maria Sharapova and Serena Williams Reconcile After Retirement

Former tennis rivals Maria Sharapova and Serena Williams have officially put their long-standing rivalry behind them — and are now friends.

Speaking at the TIME100 Summit in New York City, Sharapova revealed that their competitive relationship effectively came to an end last year, when Williams inducted her into the International Tennis Hall of Fame.

“I wouldn’t call it a rivalry,” Sharapova said with a smile. “She beat me many times.”

Their story dates back to one of tennis’s most memorable upsets, when a 17-year-old Sharapova defeated a 22-year-old Williams in the Wimbledon 2004 Final. However, Williams went on to dominate their head-to-head record, winning 19 of their next 21 encounters.

Despite their intense on-court history, Sharapova said Williams was the first person she thought of to present her at the Hall of Fame ceremony — a deeply symbolic gesture.

The two spoke on the phone for over an hour before the event, discussing not only their careers but also their personal lives, including their children. By the end of the conversation, Sharapova made the unexpected request — asking Williams to induct her.

At the August 2025 ceremony, Williams’ appearance on stage was kept a surprise, even from Sharapova’s family. “She came prepared like a true athlete,” Sharapova said, describing the moment as emotional and meaningful.

Now, with both athletes retired, Sharapova says their relationship has evolved into one of mutual respect and genuine friendship — closing the chapter on one of tennis’s most iconic rivalries.