Serena Williams turned heads at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center after making a bold prediction about compatriot Reilly Opelka, who will take on Carlos Alcaraz in the first round of the 2025 US Open. During her visit to New York City, the 23-time Grand Slam champion shared her belief that Opelka could one day lift the trophy at Flushing Meadows.
How did Serena Williams highlight Reilly Opelka’s preparations in New York?
Opelka shares a close bond with the Williams sisters, who have supported his career through highs and lows. His recent appearance at the tournament came in the mixed doubles draw, where he paired with Venus Williams but suffered a first-round defeat to Andrey Rublev and Karolína Muchová in a 4-2, 5-4(4) encounter.
On a mission 🫡
Karolina Muchova and Andrey Rublev get the better of Williams/Opelka in straights, 4-2 5-4! pic.twitter.com/mkB9GoYdhF
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) August 19, 2025
Serena posted a video from the US Open grounds, capturing Opelka hard at work during a practice session as he prepared for his singles campaign. Alongside the clip, she added a caption that doubled as a bold prediction: “202? US Open champ @reillyopelka.”
The moment was especially symbolic as Williams returned to the same venue where she played her swan song in 2022, closing an illustrious career in front of a raucous home crowd.
What Does Tennis Feel Like to Williams After Retirement?
Williams is embracing life after tennis, balancing family time with her daughters and husband Alexis Ohanian while expanding her business ventures. She recently spoke about what the sport means to her since retiring in 2022. Appearing on NBC’s Today show, Williams reflected on the lasting impact tennis has had on her life beyond the court.
“You know what? I love playing it. I do. It’s a great way to work out. It’s a great way to burn a tremendous amount of calories fast. Yeah, this is me practicing just the other day,” Williams said.
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“But you know what’s hard for me? I can’t practice relaxed. This is just like normal, relaxed hitting for me. And I’m like, no, no, no, I have to move forward. I have to be like, my mind just goes into like, move your feet, do this, do that, and it’s like I just can’t be calm,” she added.
In the interview, Williams also discussed her health progress since incorporating GLP-1 medications (commonly used for diabetes and weight management) into her revamped lifestyle.