Who can forget the electrifying 2012 Wimbledon final where Serena Williams, a force of nature, clashed with Agnieszka Radwanska? Serena stormed through the first set 6-1, her serves like thunderbolts, but Radwańska fought back valiantly to snatch the second set 7-5, igniting hope for an upset. Yet Serena unleashed her signature power and sealed a commanding 6-2 victory to claim her fifth Wimbledon title. But the exciting part? Michelle Obama watched it all unfold from the stands. Now, years later, Rennae Stubbs has a proposition for Mrs. Obama.

On April 9, Sophia Bush, best known for her role in the TV One Tree Hill, hosted Michelle Obama on her podcast Work In Progress. She asked, “What do you do that you want to do?” among other questions about Michelle’s life and her upcoming podcast. Michelle responded with enthusiasm about her newfound love for tennis! She elaborated on her tennis journey, saying, “I’m trying to figure out how to hit a two-handed backhand with topspin. The time goes by, right, and before you know it, I’ve sweated for ninety minutes.”

For Michelle, tennis is more than exercise; it’s meditative. She explained, “I’ve been able to take my mind off of everything else other than watch that ball. Watch the ball, hit it low, swing up, finish your swing state facing sideways. I mean, I just find that to be a bit meditative.” Her words caught the attention of Rennae Stubbs, who coached Serena Williams for the 2022 US Open. As she wrote excitedly on X, “Loved this ⁦@SophiaBush⁩ ! Also loved how much ⁦@MichelleObama⁩ loves her tennis!!! 🎾 btw Michelle, I’m available for a hit. 😉😉”

Despite Stubbs’ incredible career as a tennis legend, she and Michelle Obama have never crossed paths. She won four Grand Slam doubles titles during the 2000s and was ranked world No. 1 in doubles in 2000. Yet, their worlds remain apart. Imagine Stubbs’ expertise paired with Michelle’s energy—it could make for an unforgettable moment!

While Mrs. Obama’s involvement with tennis as a casual player is still low-key in the spotlight, it includes attending significant matches and events. In 2012, she was seen at Wimbledon, watching Serena Williams play. Later, in 2022, she attended the US Open, watching Frances Tiafoe.

Then, in 2023, she returned to the US Open, this time to watch Coco Gauff’s victory and participate in a tribute to Billie Jean King, where she spoke about equal pay for women in sports. Additionally, she praised Serena for her years on the court following her retirement match.

Michelle Obama lauds Serena Williams for her journey

August 2022 brought the bittersweet news: Serena Williams was stepping away from tennis. Her farewell unfolded at the 2022 US Open, where every match felt like a celebration of her legendary career. Serena battled through the early rounds, with the crowd roaring at every point. But on September 2, 2022, against Ajla Tomljanovic, the curtain fell. Serena fought fiercely, pushing the match to three sets before falling short. The stadium erupted in applause, a heartfelt goodbye to a true icon.

During this emotional time, Mrs. Obama shared a touching tribute to Serena on Instagram. “Serena, thank you for everything that you’ve done to break barriers and to be a positive light in this world,” she wrote. “We’ve all watched you wear the crown of greatness with the kind of humility, grace, and integrity that all of us can aspire to. It has meant so much to follow your journey as an athlete, as a mother, as a business leader, and more. I wish you the best as you evolve into this next chapter. And please know that I’ll always be cheering you on!”

Serena announced her decision in Vogue, explaining her desire to “evolve away from tennis” and focus on family and other ventures like Serena Ventures. Since then, she has thrived off the court as a devoted mother and successful businesswoman.

With praise from figures like Michelle Obama and her unmatched legacy in tennis, Serena continues to inspire in every chapter of her life. Imagine if Michelle takes up Rennae Stubbs’ offer for a hit—it would certainly be a moment worth watching!