Beneath the surface of Taylor’s response to Beyoncé’s honor, fans sensed something more than just admiration.

Taylor Swift is reportedly “thrilled for Beyoncé” after Billboard named her the greatest pop star of the 21st century, according to a source speaking to Page Six.

The insider shared, “Taylor has immense respect for Beyoncé and believes she absolutely deserves this recognition. She’s always been a champion of empowering female artists.”

Taylor Swift performing

While fans expressed disappointment that Taylor placed second, the “Karma” singer isn’t disheartened. “Taylor is grateful for the outpouring of support from her fans but holds no resentment. She views Beyoncé as an icon and feels privileged to be ranked right behind her,” the source explained. “Taylor is proud of her journey and everything she’s achieved.”

Page Six reached out to Taylor Swift’s representatives for comment, but they did not respond immediately.

Beyoncé

Last week, Billboard announced that Taylor Swift, 34, ranked as the second greatest pop star of the 21st century, with Beyoncé, 43, earning the top spot on Tuesday.

Billboard clarified their decision, stating, “While Taylor Swift leads as the century’s biggest pop star by sheer numbers, Beyoncé secures the crown based on her 25 years of unparalleled influence, impact, and evolution.”

Given Swift and Beyoncé’s history of mutual support, it’s no surprise that Swift holds no resentment over the outcome.

Beyoncé and Taylor Swift 2009 MTV VMAs

Their heartfelt connection began in 2009, when the 32-time Grammy winner famously brought a 19-year-old Swift back onstage at the MTV Video Music Awards after Kanye West interrupted her Best Female Video win for “You Belong with Me.”

Since that moment, the two have been vocal supporters of each other. In 2015, Swift expressed her admiration by declaring her love for Beyoncé “more than the normal amount,” as reported by E!

Swift also honored Beyoncé in her 2019 “You Need to Calm Down” music video, featuring a RuPaul’s Drag Race contestant dressed as the iconic singer.

Beyoncé and Taylor Swift attend the "Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour"

In 2021, the former Destiny’s Child member celebrated Swift’s Grammy win for Album of the Year by sending her a bouquet of flowers.

The two also supported each other’s cinematic endeavors last year, attending each other’s movie premieres.

Swift unveiled her Eras Tour concert film in October, while Beyoncé premiered her RENAISSANCE: A Film By Beyoncé just a month later.