24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic secured his 75th consecutive first-round win at a Grand Slam as he defeated American Learner Tien in straight sets in the first-ever Sunday night session match at the Arthur Ashe Stadium. During his post-match press conference, Djokovic talked about Maria Sharapova’s induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame, which also featured 23-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams, who was there as the inductee for her old rival. He congratulated 5-time Grand Slam winner Maria Sharapova for her accomplishment and also issued a challenge to Williams.
Djokovic Playfully Challenges Serena Williams to Return to Tennis
In a lighthearted moment during his post-match press conference at the 2025 US Open, Novak Djokovic issued a playful challenge to tennis legend Serena Williams, urging her to make a competitive comeback to the professional tour. Djokovic’s challenge was inspired by Serena Williams’ unexpected appearance at the International Tennis Hall of Fame induction ceremony in Newport on Saturday, August 23, 2025.
The Serbian star, with a grin, said: “She still hasn’t officially retired. So I invite her. I challenge her. Because she’s such a great competitor, when somebody challenges her, she never refuses. So I challenge Serena: Come back on the tour next year.” The fun dare was received with laughter from the reporters in the room.
Williams described her departure from the sport as an “evolution” rather than a retirement, leaving the door slightly open for a potential return. She last competed at the 2022 US Open and has since focused on her family, business ventures, and philanthropy since stepping away from professional tennis.
Djokovic also praised Williams’ eloquence in her speech, where she highlighted the similarities between herself and Sharapova despite their perceived differences. “As Serena explained beautifully in her speech, people thought they were miles apart in their differences, but actually, they were very much the same. They wanted the same thing and competed on the same tour for so many years,” he said. It will be interesting to see whether the American legend replies to Djokovic’s challenge.
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
