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It is a Monday afternoon when Alicent Hightower and Rhaenyra Targaryen are called in for a joint interview as they sat down together, opposite a journalist for Washington Post. The female journalist smiles at them warmly as the two tennis legends smiled back.
"It's so wonderful for you to join us." the interviewer replied
"Thank you for having us." Alicent says kindly with a smile
"What she said." Rhaenyra playfully jokes as they all share a laugh "No, seriously, it's a pleasure to be here. We feel honored."
"You often spoke candidly over the years of your relationship. Your rivalry is undeniably one of the greatest of all-time in sports, and the greatest in women's tennis." the interviewer acknowledges as Rhaenyra and Alicent nodded
"Can you tell us more about that?" she questioned
Rhaenyra and Alicent look at one another with a smile, before the latter silently tells her to speak first.
"Well, we've had many matches throughout the years, especially head-to-head in Grand Slam Finals. We've played in many WTA tournaments as well while on tour." Rhaenyra spoke up
"We've played so much against each other for nearly twenty years. I remember in our earlier days, I won most of our matches, but as the years went on, Rhaenyra began to dominate the majority of our matches." Alicent chimed in
"Our style of play was so different. Whereas I was the ultimate serve-and-volleyer and more aggressive, Alicent was a powerful baseline player yet very strategic and smart. She played with grace and elegance yet never showed her emotions easily on court." Rhaenyra says with admiration and honesty
"She had a strong mentality and very consistent, which is why she's one of the greatest champions. I would say Alicent was such a formidable opponent, and I learned a great deal playing against her." the blonde spoke as the auburn-haired woman smiled softly at her before turning to look at the journalist once more
"And Rhaenyra was without a doubt the toughest player I faced against. She was very aggressive on the serve and always came to the net majority of the time. But she also had a fighting spirit. A passion and determination. It's one of the reasons why she dominated so long and one of the greatest of all-time." Alicent spoke with respect and admiration of her formal rival and current partner
"You both have won a total of eighteen grand slam titles each respectively by the time you retired from tennis in different years. Alicent, you retired earlier than Rhaenyra. Can you tell us about your final match and what that experience was like for you?" the interviewer asked
"It was pretty emotional. I remember thinking during the match, 'This is it. This could very well be my last match.' I had a great run at the U.S. Open throughout my career. My final match in the quarterfinals was... it was bittersweet. I had a long, wonderful career, but in my last few years, I felt it was time to move forward onto other things. I was about 34 at the time, going on 35 years old." Alicent admits candidly
"I remember after the match; the crowd gave me a long applause. It was emotional, especially when Rhaenyra met me in the locker room. She gave me a long hug. And we just held each other as we cried. This woman right here who I've known since we were teenagers and spent the better part of my life with, as rivals, as friends, as partners. That kind of bond stays with you forever." the Hightower spoke as she reflects on that past memory
After the match ended, Alicent lost in the quarterfinals at the U.S. Open, as she went to pack away her tennis racket and gather her things. The fans began to applaud her loudly in the crowd, as the six-time U.S. Open Champion began to feel emotional. She stands up one last time as she waves to the crowd. After she gave one last interview with the tennis commentator, she left as she heads back to the locker room. When she gets there, Rhaenyra is already there and pulls her into a heartwarming and emotional hug. The tears began to fall from their eyes, as they clutched each other tightly. No words are exchanged in that moment, and they felt it wasn't needed. Nearly two decades of memories, the good and the good, wash over them as they held on to one another.
The journalist smiles with a hint of tears hearing about that moment before speaking again. "Going back to earlier years, can you tell us the beginning of your friendship while on tour?"
Rhaenyra and Alicent smiles fondly at the memory, before the former spoke first.
"I remember when I first started earlier in my career, Alicent was already a rising tennis star and having played in grand slams for two years. I turned pro when I was about 18 while Alicent was 20. We came from different backgrounds, as I grew up in Australia while she is from England." Rhaenyra goes on to explain
"I remember thinking the first time I actually met Alicent was in the player lounge in Florida in 1973. I was 16 years old. We were on tour. I remember Ali was playing chess with a tournament official at a table by the wall."
"I walked in and saw her and then she looked up at me as she saw me approaching. She gave a small wave and a sweet murmured, "Hi". And I was like, "Oh my God, Alicent Hightower said hello to me", I thought." Rhaenyra recalled with a grin as Alicent chuckled next to her
"I recognized her from the photos in the World Tennis magazine. We met and talked as we got to know each other for a bit. And honestly, I fell in love with her in 45 seconds." Rhaenyra admits with a smile as Alicent blushes while smiling back
"My first impression of Rhaenyra is someone who was young, full of life and passionate. Even at a young age, she was bold, charming and witty. A wicked sense of humor. While I was more reserved and introverted. We're polar opposites yet we complement each other and surprisingly have much in common in certain aspects." Alicent chimed in as the journalist listened
"We've had a couple of matches in our earlier years, but I remember my urge to befriend Rhaenyra won out over my reserve. In the first couple of years, we built a genuine friendship. We hung out a lot and even became doubles partners at one point and won the Wimbledon Championship." the Hightower expressed
"We've traveled together, practiced together, even brunched before we met in finals. Those were simpler times back then." Rhaenyra added as she recalls the memories
"Speaking of Wimbledon, one of your most memorable matches against each other was in a close three set with Rhaenyra winning her first grand slam against you back in 1978. Can you speak more about that day?" the interviewer asked Alicent first
"Wow, it was memorable indeed. At the time, I was ranked number 1 in the world and most of the matches we fought against each other, I have won. But that day was a turning point. Rhaenyra ended up claiming the number 1 spot in the rankings. After she won, I was happy for her." Alicent expressed sincerely
"Until she wasn't after I started beating her in later grand slam finals." Rhaenyra playfully joked as Alicent playfully glares at her before they share a laugh
"True. I never liked to lose. But I've always played my best tennis against you, and I feel our rivalry has made me a better player for it and vice versa. You challenged me in ways no one has before or ever will. And I think there's a deep level of respect between us." Alicent confesses openly
"But yeah, that day was a major turning point, which was truly the beginning of what would later become an epic rivalry between us." the red-head says reflecting back on that day at Wimbledon
It was the second set, as Alicent Hightower won the first one by 6-2. The Aussie begins to serve as the young English woman is returning. As Rhaenyra serves it out, Alicent hits the ball back to her. They got at it for a while, until Rhaenyra starts to come to the net. However, as Alicent goes on the attack on her return, she accidentally hits Rhaenyra in the head with the ball.
Alicent gasped in response, as Rhaenyra playfully stumbles while shaking her head. The Hightower slowly walks up to the net while holding her head, feeling bad for accidentally hitting her yet has an amused look on her face. When Rhaenyra meets Alicent at the net, the Hightower playfully and affectionately rubs her opponent's blonde hair as they share a laugh, before walking away. Rhaenyra shook her head once more while grinning, before letting out an exhale as she does her best to stay focused on the match. Alicent gets back in position as Rhaenyra does the same, as the Targaryen serves once more. After a couple of games, Rhaenyra successfully wins the second set. They are tied as the score is now 2-6, 6-4.
The deciding last set ends with a tie-break, as Alicent's father and coach, Otto Hightower, sits in her box with a serious expression. He doesn't look pleased by the results. While Rhaenyra's coach, Harrold Westerling, is also sitting quietly yet would cheer her on whenever she wins a major point in the game. When Rhaenyra manages to win the tie-break and the match at 2-6, 6-4, 7-5, she is relieved and happy as the people in her box cheered her on, including her cousins, Laenor and Laena. Alicent met Rhaenyra across the net, as she gives her an affectionate side hug, congratulating her. The two friends are all smiles before pulling away.
Rhaenyra celebrates the win, holding up the Wimbledon trophy, a big round golden plate, as she smiles widely while Alicent claps for her. The 21-year-old, Aussie, is elated winning her very first grand slam title. The crowd at Wimbledon clap for her, although disappointed as they were rooting for Alicent Hightower in her hometown. Fortunately, Alicent already won two Wimbledon Championships in previous years, including two years prior.
The journalist then spoke up again. "Rhaenyra, when you started to win more championships over the years, you eventually changed coaches. What was that transition was like?"
"It was a different experience for sure. I worked with Harrold Westerling for a good couple of years, but then started to work with my uncle, Daemon, who had a more unconventional method of teaching and training." Rhaenyra explains before continuing further
"During that tenure, I was more disciplined and worked twice as hard. I learned a lot personally and professionally during those years into my adulthood. I learned to attack more aggressively yet efficiently on the serve and went up to the net more often. Overall, my confidence as a player grew."
"And during that period, you and Alicent drifted apart, as your rivalry grew as you both battled for the number 1 spot in the rankings. What was that like?" the journalist questioned next
"God, it was hard to be honest. I remember Alicent was the one who initially felt she needed to distance herself, the more we played against each other. At the time, I was sad yet understood, as I knew how much she needed to focus on her game." Rhaenyra confesses
"It was very hard at the time, earlier on, as my father was very strict and wanted me to focus on tennis more. He felt that my friendship with Rhaenyra was a distraction. It wasn't easy for me, as I grew very close with her, but at the time, I felt I needed to create a bit of distance between us for a while." Alicent added with a look of regret
"At that point, we ended our partnership in doubles' tournaments. Over those next few years, we drifted apart as our rivalry grew. Yet underneath the tension, there was still a level of respect we had for one another." Rhaenyra spoke honestly
"And Alicent, you have also eventually changed coaches during that period in your mid-to-late twenties. You've even had a fitness team. What was that experience and transition like for you?" she asked next
"It was like a reawakening of sorts, to be honest. After my father and I parted ways, professionally, I felt I needed a change in my life. I needed to be my own person. I needed to grow, not just as a tennis player, but also as a person." Alicent opens up about the process
"Margaery Tyrell became my coach for those next couple of years. I also worked with a team of trainers, mostly women, such as Sansa Stark and Talya. Although there were two men on my team, who supported me and trained with me as well, Criston Cole and my brother, Gwayne." the Hightower recalls that period when she worked with her team
"I worked twice as hard on my fitness and went to the gym more. Working with Margaery was a great experience. I learned a lot from her. She supported yet challenged me as a player, and I felt my confidence grew." Alicent says truthfully
"It was also during that period when you and Rhaenyra came out." the interviewer spoke about that time
"Yes. Actually, Rhaenyra bravely came out first after someone released the interview she did. At the time, I was still in the closet, because at that time as I've mentioned, times were different." Alicent opens up about that period in her life
"It was challenging for sure, having to keep our personal lives separate from our professional one." Rhaenyra chimed in
"As Alicent said, during those days, most people weren't as accepting. Back then, I've had my share of romantic or casual involvements with men and women, including former tennis player, Harwin Strong." the blonde says
"Alicent and I had a thing going in the earlier years, which we kept private. There was definitely more than friendship. Of course, we had such a close friendship and were attached at the hip, but we did our best to keep our relationship discreet." Rhaenyra spoke honestly
"I wasn't as comfortable with my sexuality back then, as Rhaenyra. So, it was very complicated for sure." Alicent admits while the interviewer listens
"But as the years went on, after Rhaenyra and I split, I focused more on tennis while keeping my life private. The only friendships I've maintained was with my team back then, especially Margaery and Sansa, who were an item for a few years." Alicent confesses as Rhaenyra held her hand
"And Sansa eventually dated my cousin, Daenerys, on and off for a couple of years. It wasn't love at first sight, that's for sure." Rhaenyra says part jokingly, part honestly as they share a laugh
"No, definitely not. But Sansa admitted to me later on throughout the years, that she has known only two great loves in her life. And that is Margaery and Daenerys." Alicent says with a smile
"But yeah, I eventually came out in my late twenties, after I was sadly outed. It was a hard time back then, but thankfully I had a support system and genuine friends who stood by me, including Rhaenyra, who had my back. Thankfully, we eventually reconciled our friendship during the later part of my career. And we got back together sometime before my retirement." Alicent says the last part with a smile as she turns to look at Rhaenyra who smiled back
"It's amazing to hear after everything you both have been through." the interviewer says with a genuine smile
"Yes. Alicent also stood by me through the good times and bad. We've had our highs and lows, but it has made our relationship stronger." Rhaenyra says with a smile of her own as she looks at her wife of many years
"I would say we known each other in a way, no one else does. There's a deep level of understanding and trust. There's an emotional vulnerability and tactile closeness that comes from being partners. She has my back and I have hers." Alicent smiles warmly
"One of your most iconic matches was the 1985 French Open where Alicent won after a tough three setter. There was a memorable moment when Rhaenyra came around the net and gave you a hug. What was that experience like for you both?" the interviewer asked next
"It was unbelievable." Alicent answered, still surprised yet happy of that moment
"Life-changing for sure. I remember feeling like I've come home." Rhaenyra says with a relief thinking back to that day which was the beginning of their reconciliation
After Alicent won a tough match in 3 sets, her team cheered loudly in her box, as Margaery and Sansa stood up with wide grins, as Criston and Talya did the same as they celebrated her hard-fought victory in the championship. Alicent has now won 6 French Open titles with a total of 17 grand slam championships so far in her long career. Rhaenyra came around the net to congratulate her, as she pulls her in a heartwarming side hug, as Alicent smiles happily. After many years of battling against each other and the last few years where Rhaenyra has dominated her in their matches, this is a major turning point in their tennis rivalry as Alicent won against her at the French Open this year.
Laenor, Laena, Daenerys, Missandei and Harwin stood up in Rhaenyra's box, as they cheer for her while she receives a smaller trophy and a check for runner-up prize. Daemon, on the other hand, doesn't look so happy. When Alicent receives the main trophy and a check for her grand slam victory, her team cheers for her, as Margaery, Sansa, Criston, Gwayne and Talya stood up for her. Alicent smiles happily, as she holds up her trophy.
"It was another turning point in our tennis rivalry, but most importantly in our relationship personally, as Alicent and I reconciled, as friends. I think after everything we have been through, it brought us closer." Rhaenyra admits as Alicent nodded in agreement
"It's definitely one of the most memorable moments, perhaps the greatest one, especially on a personal level. Our bond grew stronger from there." Alicent chimed in
"And the next year you've won your 7th French Open title and what would be your 18th and final grand slam championship in total in your career." the interviewer says as Alicent nodded
"But your final match with Rhaenyra was at the Australian Open in 1988 in the semi-finals. What was it like battling each other for that last time?" the journalist asked next
"Bittersweet." Rhaenyra and Alicent said in unison before sharing a smile
"Looking back, we didn't know that would be our last match at a grand slam. I mean, I would retire a year later while Rhaenyra continued to play for a couple more years before retiring in 1994. But when I think back to our final match, it was special and memorable for a lot of reasons." Alicent answered
"By that point later in our careers, we had the feeling that things would change. It was a new era, especially with younger players coming in, which ushered in the beginning of modern women's tennis." Rhaenyra added
"Players at that period definitely hit harder and more aggressive on serve and took the ball early on the return." Alicent chimed in as she spoke about the beginning of the age of modern women's tennis
"It started a whole new era ushering in many all-time greats in our sport. Here we are thirty-five years later after our last match and the game is as intense as ever." the Hightower says proudly of the new generation
"And now the two of you are still heavily invested in the sport as commentators. You've also been inducted in the Hall of Fame for your careers respectively, but also are mentors for young female players." the interviewer says with a smile
"It's an amazing achievement for the both of us. Even now, after all these years, we still have a love and passion for the sport. We love helping young female players reach their full potential." Rhaenyra says with a fond smile
"It's definitely an honor, especially helping these young players and being their mentors." Alicent says humbly
"And you're the chairperson for the USTA foundation." she says to Alicent who nodded with a smile
"You two have a legacy in your long careers and have gone down in history as some of the all-time greats, but also one of the greatest rivalries in tennis history. If you can describe three words for each other, what would it be?" the interviewer asked next
Rhaenyra lets Alicent go first, as the Hightower answers with a smile. "Passionate, free spirited and brave."
Rhaenyra goes next as she replies with a smile of her own regarding her wife. "Brilliant, humble and beautiful."
"I would say Alicent's greatest weapon on and off the court is her brain. People used to call her the "Ice Maiden', as she hardly showed emotion while playing and had a strong mentality and strategic skill in her game. Her intelligence yet kindness is some of the qualities I admire and love most about her." Rhaenyra spoke about her long-time partner
"And Rhaenyra was known for her fiery nature on and off the court. She gave everything she got 110% during any of her matches. What I admire and love most about her is her heart. She wears her heart on her sleeve." Alicent spoke fondly of her wife
"The both of you are legends in the sport in your own right, and truly class acts on and off the court. Thank you for your time." the journalist smiles
"Thank you for having us." Rhaenyra and Alicent spoke in unison as they smiled back
After their interview ended, they walked out together as they enjoyed the rest of the day. Rhaenyra is holding Alicent's hand as they go for a walk in the streets of London, where they share their home for many decades since Rhaenyra moved from Australia in her twenties. The two have been best friends, rivals, lovers, partners in every way. They've been each other's lifeline through the years.
As they enjoy the day, they decided to grab something to eat as they sat down and relaxed while enjoying a good meal and drink. After spending the day together, time flew by, as they walk the streets during the late afternoon as the sun is about to set. They stare up at the sky, while standing on the bridge.
"After all this time, we're still together. It's so long ago yet -" Alicent spoke in a hushed tone
"Feels like only yesterday." Rhaenyra finished her sentence while holding her wife from behind
Alicent sighs in contentment as Rhaenyra gently kisses the crown of her head, before leaning into her embrace.
"It makes me appreciate the memories more." Alicent whispers before turning around to face her wife
The two women simply gazed at one another with a look of affection, silently communicating without any words. They smile fondly at one another as they reflect on the memories, while cherishing the here and now.
"No regrets." Rhaenyra whispers
"No regrets." Alicent whispers back with unshed tears as she thinks of all they've been through together
They share a tender, lingering kiss before pulling away, as they go back to gazing at the sky, which soon darkened as they look up at the moon and stars glowing above them in the city of London.
THE END