Tennis celebrates Maria Sharapova's Hall of Fame induction, Serena Williams leads the cheers

Tennis is still buzzing after Maria Sharapova’s induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame—and the viral, emotional moment when Serena Williams, her biggest career rival, stepped on stage to introduce her.

Sharapova, a five-time Grand Slam champion and former world No. 1, joined American doubles legends Bob and Mike Bryan in the Class of 2025. She reflected on her career, honored her father Yuri Sharapov’s sacrifices, and greeted Serena with a warm hug.

👉 Read More: "Surprise!" Serena Williams introduces Maria Sharapova at International Tennis Hall of Fame induction ceremony

On Tennis Channel Live, Alison Riske-Amritraj praised Serena’s surprise speech for its candor and “elegance.”

“I don’t think any of us really expected to see her greatest rival take the stage to commend her on her wonderful career,” Riske-Amritraj said. “Just an incredible moment for tennis. I think this will go down as an iconic moment that we’ll never forget.”

🖥️ WATCH: Maria Sharapova's induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame | 2025 Full Ceremony

After the ceremony, which aired on Tennis Channel (watch the replay), Sharapova posted two photos on Instagram featuring Serena.

“Thank you for having my back tonight, @serenawilliams. It meant the world to me 🥹,” she wrote.

Serena shared her own post, revealing how the appearance came together.

“Last night, I flew to Rhode Island for Maria Sharapova,” she wrote. “Maria’s career, as her dad put it yesterday, started with me and last night ended with me inducting her into the Tennis Hall of Fame.”

In her caption, Serena called herself Sharapova’s “former rival, her forever fan, and now, her forever friend.”

“I’m probably the last person you expected to see standing here tonight,” she said. “Honestly, a few years ago, I would’ve said the same thing. But years after getting to know her better, we now call each other friends. And when a friend calls, you answer.”

Sharapova replied in the comments: “You are a class act. I am beyond grateful.”

Social media lit up with congratulations for Sharapova and admiration for both players: