'We are going to remember Serena Williams the person forever' – Mats Wilander pays tribute after US Open loss

Eurosport tennis expert and seven-time Grand Slam champion Mats Wilander paid a glowing tribute to Serena Williams after the tennis icon lost in the third round of the US Open to Australian Ajla Tomljanovic. The 7-5 6-7 (4-7) 6-1 defeat has seemingly brought Williams’ illustrious tennis career to an end – although she has refused to officially confirm her retirement. Ad Williams, in typical fashion, put up a brave fight and forced a decider by producing some of her best tennis.

However, Tomljanovic showed incredible resolve to win the third set on her sixth match point and book her place in the fourth round for the first time in her career. US Open'An inspiration' — Tributes pour in as Serena set to bow out of tennis after US Open defeatAN HOUR AGO Appearing on Eurosport after Williams’ defeat, Wilander spoke of his admiration for the 40-year-old. «Serena has meant so much for tennis and the world, but for America as well,” he said.

“I was watching the crowd and there are so many people here that have never been to a tennis match before — they didn’t know what the score was, they were talking through the points – she has just brought tennis to a completely new level and transcended the sport. We are going to remember Serena the person forever. 'I always did love Australia...' — Serena Williams refuses to officially call it quits 'An inspiration' — Tributes pour in as Serena Williams set to bow out of tennis »Of course, Serena Williams’ serve is absolutely beautiful, but we’re going to remember her mostly for her fighting spirit.

Even today she showed it, she refused to go away. Amazing. «I have to say I am so impressed with the way she went about this whole journey playing these three matches.