At the US Open 2024, Serena Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam champion, made a surprise return, meeting with current world No. 1 Iga Swiatek, who expressed feeling 'star-struck' by the encounter. Williams, who last competed at the US Open in 2022, attended the tournament as a spectator while Swiatek credited her for providing a motivational boost before her third-round match against Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova. Their conversation in the players' gym inspired Swiatek, who described Williams as having 'a lot of positive energy' and noted that it was a significant moment for her, despite their previously limited interactions. Swiatek's victory in straight sets followed this uplifting exchange, reinforcing the impact of Williams' presence at the event. The former champion's attendance, dressed in her signature denim outfit, has drawn attention as she balances her business ventures and family life after retirement.