“Congratulations to you Andy Murray for such an incredible career,” said Williams in a video on the social media platform X. “I have to say I’ve always enjoyed watching you. One of the main reasons because you were one of the few players who would be more angry than me on the court, which is a hard thing to do.

“But to me it was the most exciting thing to watch and I had the pleasure of playing mixed doubles by your side, which was such a fantastic experience to do that, at Wimbledon,” Williams added. “It really was one of the highlights of my life.”

The 23-time grand slam winner added: “I’m just so grateful that I had that experience and I also hold a special place in my heart to you because you always speak out so much for women and everything that women deserve.”

Murray broke new ground by hiring Amélie Mauresmo as his coach in 2014, while he frequently highlights the women’s game. He also memorably corrected a reporter who had overlooked the achievements of American female players during a 2017 press conference – a moment included in the tribute montage played on Centre Court.

“You were the leader in that and the things you said about myself and Venus, so many things about how we were always so inspiring and what we meant to you, it really went such a long way in my heart,” added Williams.

“I will always be grateful for that, I will always be grateful for the support you gave myself, the support you gave women and the excitement that you brought and bring to tennis,” the 42-year-old continued.

“Watching you win Wimbledon and the US Open and those gold medals was so exciting. I truly enjoyed it. I’ve always been such a fan, as you already know, and I will always be cheering for you and rooting you on in whatever you decide to do next.”