Inspirational, Icon, GOAT: Tennis stars sum up Serena Williams in heartfelt tribute

How would you describe the 23-time Grand Slam champion? Naomi Osaka, Carlos Alcaraz, and Coco Gauff drop some superlatives you can use.



The Queen of Queens; Serena Williams Match Preview 3:55
WATCH: Serena Williams, the Queen of Queens

NEW YORK—Just when you think you’ve run out of ways to pay tribute to Serena Williams as she prepares to evolve away from tennis, here come a coterie of the game’s biggest stars with some superlatives of their own.

“She has so many words I can use to describe her that I would never finish,” says Paula Badosa.

The world No. 4 and top players like Iga Swiatek, Carlos Alcaraz, and Coco Gauff nonetheless take up the challenge of describing the 23-time Grand Slam champion in just three words. Though the group manages some impressive variety, it's easy to spot some common themes.

“GOAT” is a popular choice, along with “inspirational,” “legend,” and "icon," but Casper Ruud may sum her up best.

“The. Best. Ever. Those are the three words I would say,” says the Norwegian.

Check out the full video to see which players match the three words you’d choose.