Western & Serena Williams had a short run at the Southern Open.
The 40-year-old lost his 6-4, 6-0 to Emma Raducanu in straight sets in the first round on Tuesday in Cincinnati.
Williams, who announced his retirement from tennis after the US Open, showed plenty of power, but returned and unforced against the 19-year-old Briton. I struggled.
On the other hand, Radukanu was near perfect, finishing the match with one unforced error on his part.
"I think we have to pay tribute to Serena and her amazing career. I'm so grateful for the experience of playing with her," Radukhanu said on the court after the game. Everything she's accomplished has been very inspiring, and it was such an honor to share the court with her."
The American exited the court to a standing ovation with plenty of encouragement from the crowd.
Radukhanu respects Williams' ability to stay focused "I was nervous from the first point to the last."
Radukhanu faces Victoria Azarenka — beats Venus Williams 6-3 4-6 6-3 in the first round — while Williams spent two weeks sorting out the game before saying goodbye to Queens.
