Tennis pro Serena Williams has officially opened up to the public about using GLP-1 medications for weight loss. She clarified that her decision to try GLP-1 medications wasn’t about chasing a slimmer figure for vanity’s sake, but about sustainably regaining control of her health. While Williams continues to make headlines about her connection with weight-loss drugs, a big name in tennis just “challenged” her to get back on the court. Here’s what he said.

Novak Djokovic ‘challenged’ Serena Williams to return to pro tennis

On Aug. 23, 2025, the fierce rivalry that once defined Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova’s dynamic gave way to a deeply moving moment of camaraderie at the International Tennis Hall of Fame. In a stunning and heartfelt surprise, Williams emerged from behind the stage in Newport, Rhode Island, to introduce Sharapova and induct her. She called Sharapova her “former rival, former fan, and forever friend.”

Williams reflected on how their rivalry, which began with Sharapova’s 2004 Wimbledon win and fueled some of the sport’s tensest matchups, actually pushed both of them to excel. According to People, she spoke of how their competitive fire eventually eased into mutual respect and eventual friendship. She described Sharapova as the “yin to my yang” and “calm to my storm.”

“To the world, we looked miles and miles apart,” Williams said. “The truth is, we weren’t. We wanted the exact same thing at the exact same time: to be the very best. In our sport, only one person can really walk away with the trophy. And what’s really wrong with wanting to be your best? Nothing. In fact, it’s what drove us.”

Serbian tennis player Novak Djokovic called Williams’ speech about Sharapova a “wonderful” moment for the two tennis legends.

“I mean, they had some really intense rivalry and incredible matches over the years, but they said it,” Djokovic said, according to Tennis365. “They were honest. I think during their speeches, they said, you know, Serena, I think, mentioned that Maria or people would probably think about Serena as one of the last people they would be there to introduce.”

Following the speech, Djokovic wants to see Williams get back on the court. While Williams seemingly unofficially retired, Djokovic believes she could make a comeback.

“And, of course, seeing Serena, you know, in any shape or form around tennis is great,” he continued. “You know, we miss her. And she still hasn’t officially retired, so I invite her. I challenge her because she’s such a great competitor. So when somebody challenges her, she never refuses. So, I challenge Serena. Come back on a Tour next year.”

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