Serena, Kerber continue tradition of moving post-match embraces

Five months ago, Serena Williams lost a heartbreaker to first-time Slam finalist Angelique Kerber at the Australian Open.

Despite the obvious disappointment, Serena was uncommonly gracious in defeat. She went immediately to Kerber's side of the net to embrace her, betraying not the slightest irritation while smiling almost as big as Kerber did. The two then giggled their way through the trophy presentation and photos, and lauded each other in their speeches.

After Serena beat her in the Wimbledon final to capture her record-tying 22nd Slam title on Saturday, Kerber returned the favor.

Their embrace at the net and later during the trophy ceremony, and the kind words they offered each other after the hard-fought match, continued to speak of a deep mutual respect.

"You're a great champion and a great person," Kerber said in her on-court interview. "It's always an honor to play against you in the finals."

"You know I love playing her, she's such a great opponent," Serena said. "She really brings out the best in me."

This was the first time in a decade that two women have squared off in two major finals in the same year. Given the quality of the two Serena and Kerber have played in 2016 and the admiration those matches have engendered, one hopes they have a few more in store.