Serena Williams caused a stir about her retirement during her post-match press conference at the Canadian Open, saying she can ‘see the light at the end of the tunnel’. The player won her first singles match in 430 days on Monday, defeating Nuria Parrizas Diaz 6-3 6-4 at the hard-court event in Toronto.

Speaking in her press conference after the drought-breaking win, the 23-time grand slam champion was asked what keeps her motivated to keep playing into her 40s.

But Serena admitted the only thing motivating her at the moment is the fact she will soon be retiring.

“I guess there’s just a light at the end of the tunnel,” she said.

“I don’t know, I’m getting closer to the light, so… lately that’s been it for me. I can’t wait to get to that light.”

When asked what “the light” means to her, she responded “freedom”.

“I love playing though, so it’s like, amazing,” she added.

“But, you know, I can’t do this forever.

“Sometimes you just want to try your best to enjoy the moments, and do the best that you can.”

Tennis fans and commentators were sent into a frenzy over her comments