Some athletes have that certain edge. Calling it mental toughness just seems too simple.
Even in what was almost-definitely-but-let’s-tease-the-prospect-of-more her last match, Serena Williams showed that edge. Between points, she looked beaten. Then she’d manage one more scramble, one more powerful ground stroke, one more return. Ajla Tomljanović had to play brilliantly and show some fortitude of her own to defeat the supernatural force on the other side of the net.
Some athletes don’t get to go out on their own terms or show their best at the end of their careers. Assuming this really was Serena’s last appearance in a Grand Slam singles match, this was a fitting end. Even in defeat, her power and class shined through.
Bryan Graham has filed his report, and that’s all from here. Thanks for following along with this truly special match.
And now, the most difficult interview of Ajla Tomljanović’s career, as she somehow has to find the right words to pay tribute to Serena after sending her into retirement, before a crowd that is often unkind to Serena’s opponents.
“I’m feeling really sorry, because I love Serena just as much as you guys do. … This is a surreal moment for me.”
How did you handle the pressure?
“I just thought she would beat me.”
Good line. The crowd likes that one.
“She’s the greatest of all time, period.”
And she grasps the importance of Serena’s journey.
“I think she embodies that no dream is too big.”
