Serena Williams pays a heartfelt tribute to Murray: "I still have a special place in my heart for you"

It can't be said often enough, but this is the tennis event of the moment: the farewell ceremony dedicated to Andy Murray as the Scot prepares to put away his rackets.

During the ceremony, a host of tennis stars paid tribute to the former world number 1's immense career.

Although Serena did not appear in the video shown at the ceremony, she took to her social networks to praise the Briton for his achievements both on and off the court, and in particular for his support of women's causes.

In a video posted on her social networks, she declared: "I had the pleasure of playing mixed doubles alongside you, which was a fantastic experience. It was truly one of the highlights of my life. I'm so grateful to have had this experience.

I still have a special place in my heart for you because you always speak out so much for women and all that women deserve.

You have been the leader in this field. The things you said about me and Venus, about how we were always so inspiring and what we meant to you, it really made its way into my heart.

I'll always be grateful. I've always been a huge fan, as you already know, and I'll always be here to encourage and support you, whatever you decide to do next."