Let's Stop Asking When Serena Williams Will Retire and Start Appreciating Her While She's Here 24.2K Shares Maybe four minutes after Naomi Osaka notched the final point, the Serena Williams retirement rumors began. Context is important here, so let's set the stage. Williams had just lost to Osaka in straight sets in the Australian Open semifinal. She fought hard, but it was clear that Osaka had outclassed her. Before leaving the court, Williams paused to wave as the half-capacity crowd gave her a standing ovation. She put a hand on her heart, looking emotional. And . . . cue the gossip. Cue the speculation that this was her official "farewell," either to the Australian Open or her professional career.