News
Remaining Positive
Hey Guys,
How are you? I understand that I may have let some of you all down in regards to my behavior during the semifinals of the US OPEN. I make no excuses in regards to my word choice that night, but I am sincerely sorry. I hope that you all are able to forgive me. Also, thank you all for your continued support & understanding. It means the world to me that you all are still in my corner as I stand on the line, after displaying actions outside of my character.
As some of you know, I was on Good Morning America this morning, to launch the start of my book tour. There were questions related to what took place, but I don't want to lose focus & highlight the negative. I love Good Morning America; it is like a second home. I feel comfortable under the lights & the environment is very inviting. For those who were able to watch thank you. Also, the feedback on twitter was very encouraging. Of course, I logged on to facebook & twitter to read your comments. LOL...
Today, I have a pretty busy schedule. I was also on FOX following Good Morning America. I will be on CNN, very soon. I have a NIKE event today. But, the best part about today is that I will end the day with a party to support, "On the Line." Tomorrow, I have a live appearance on CNN's American Morning. So, stay tuned for more updates. I also will be on Live with Regis & Kelly. But, if you really want a chance to meet me, I will be at Barnes & Nobles tomorrow from 11am until 1245pm for a book signing. So, if you are in the New York area, please stop by to see me. The address is 555 Fifth Ave. (at 46th St.). So, as you can see I am on the line but I refuse to allow negativity to stop me. If you haven't purchased, "On the Line" you should because there are many memorable moments from my life that reflect the negative & the positive.
Xxxx,
S.



Serena, thank you for your most recent statement of apology to the linesperson, USTA, and your fans. that is the Serena i have been a fan of for so many years. keep on keepin' on!
I am amazed that such a successful tennis champion could act and look so unpolished and uneducated. I'm hopful you correct this by taking time off and promoting tennis as a good and positive thing to young people who look up to you, who imitate you and are inspired to do great things with their lives. Please come forward and own this behavior. Your appearance on the ABC Good morning show was yet another performance. Stop it and grow up Serena. Look to Beyonce for guidance.
Great tennis player?- yes Role model. class act. gracious in defeat?- no. Even her mother had this to say after she lost to Venus -2008 Wimbledon. ``Serena thinks everything is supposed to go her way, that's the bottom line, She thinks that's the way it's supposed to go in life. But this is life." Serena---listen to your mother.
Win or lose, Good or bad, I will always be a big fan. What's done is done. There have been a few things that I have regret doing in my life but no matter what life goes on. It's how we learn from our mistakes that make us stronger. Remember that this is the day the lord has made and we shall rejoice and be glad in it.
Who hasn't made a mistake or wished they could not take something back. The point is we learn from it all. People should look to their own lives before they sit in judgement of anyone else. You are real and I bet you are a better person for having experienced this. Anyways, all the best. Loved watching the game with you and Venus. Congratulations to you both!
This is my first and last comment to you. I don't believe your apologies are genuine. Your PR firm told you that you better say the words or else. The way you acted was not an outburst out of the blue. It's the way you are inside. Another spoiled rich kid like Kanye West. Two outburst kids in a week - wow. Maybe you and Kanye should go off together and get off our radar for a while. Let some good kids get the limelight that they deserve for being good role models. Serena, you're a brat. Period.
Ultimately it comes down to action. The way we act is the message we give. All the fluff about appearances and interviews and book deals does not bring you back up in my eyes. Even Nasy Nastase never threatened anyone physically out there. I love your tennis. You are a dynamic and exciting competitor. I wish you well, but that display was a disgrace. This is a gentlemen's sport. That is why we shake hands at the end. Just because you were losing doesn't mean you take it out on the tiny line judge, who made a bad call. Don't let the fluff distract you from your higher purpose. To be dignified in defeat. To play your best regardless of the outcome. That is freedom.
Mr. Dave Williams.... and everyone else who is into spreading the negative - Go find another site to sh1t on people! Seriously, this is a fan site and as such the words should be supportive. Sure it is fine to give constructive criticism, but if you can not even do that, then go somewhere else. Do you really think that YOUR NEGATIVITY is going to breed anything positive? Or is that that goal, to only create garbage? Get a life!
Mr. Dave Williams.... and everyone else who is into spreading the negative - Go find another site to sh1t on people! Seriously, this is a fan site and as such the words should be supportive. Sure it is fine to give constructive criticism, but if you can not even do that, then go somewhere else. Do you really think that YOUR NEGATIVITY is going to breed anything positive? Or is that that goal, to only create garbage? Get a life!
This is my first and last comment to you. I don't believe your apologies are genuine. Your PR firm told you that you better say the words or else. The way you acted was not an outburst out of the blue. It's the way you are inside. Another spoiled rich kid like Kanye West. Two outburst kids in a week - wow. Maybe you and Kanye should go off together and get off our radar for a while. Let some good kids get the limelight that they deserve for being good role models. Serena, you're a brat. Period.
Serena!!!! Good luck with the book. (Really hoping for an audio version, I live in my car practically) BUT, on another note...don't you apologize one more time!!! I am outraged at the media and public response to a display of temper!!!! HELLO!!???? Mr. McEnroe did it all the time, and we hear the "oh, boys will be boys". I believe Roger had some choice words for the umpire last night...no headlines? Fined? I doubt it! Talk about a double standard! If that whacky judge is afraid of a fuzzy little yellow ball, she needs to find another vocation, and stop at the eye glass store on the way. If ya can't take the heat, get out from under the lights! Love you, love your talent,strength,and grace!!! I for one, and glad you still have passion for your game! Meredith Deibold
Serena, I just wanted to let you know that I'm not an avid tennis fan, but I do like the game and have always admired you and your sister's talent. You girls are incredible!!! I have felt so compelled to write to you and tell you that it is ok to get upset or angry. Just because you are an awesome, world known athlete dosen't mean that you are not intitled to your emotions or expressing how you feel. Please stop apologizing! It's ok, you're human! There are much more important things in this world to be worrying about than you getting upset at your match. The world and media are corrupt and thrive on scandal and you are their latest victim. People need to get over it! Hang in there and the media will move on to someone else soon! You are loved, so keep your head up!!!
I have been a fan of you and your sister for some time. You both showed the world you can make a difference. But in this case I think your head got way too big! You are not bigger than this sport or this culture. Violent threats and vulgarity have no place in this respectable public arena. I don't believe your newest comments are sincere. You blew it by not being humble and apologetic the first time. Thank you for showing the world your true colors.
I have been a fan of you and your sister for some time. You both showed the world you can make a difference. But in this case I think your head got way too big! You are not bigger than this sport or this culture. Violent threats and vulgarity have no place in this respectable public arena. I don't believe your newest comments are sincere. You blew it by not being humble and apologetic the first time. Thank you for showing the world your true colors.
Serena!!!! Good luck with the book. (Really hoping for an audio version, I live in my car practically) BUT, on another note...don't you apologize one more time!!! I am outraged at the media and public response to a display of temper!!!! HELLO!!???? Mr. McEnroe did it all the time, and we hear the "oh, boys will be boys". I believe Roger had some choice words for the umpire last night...no headlines? Fined? I doubt it! Talk about a double standard! If that whacky judge is afraid of a fuzzy little yellow ball, she needs to find another vocation, and stop at the eye glass store on the way. If ya can't take the heat, get out from under the lights! Love you, love your talent,strength,and grace!!! I for one, and glad you still have passion for your game! Meredith Deibold
Your actions during the U>S> Open were despicable, you and Kanye West belong in the same cage. What a shameful exmaple of sportsmanship. the USTA should kick you of of the game. I wonder how all the young americans watching your filthy tirade on the court reacted. Role Model?....I don't thhink so. You will the scar of your behavious or many years. Smarten up its the fans and the sponsors tht pay you all the money you make and without them you are nothing. Smarten up.....
Serena, I still say you should not have apologised, the first statement was sufficient as you said you know you did not make a foot fault (over the line...lol) I got that your book On the Line and the foot fault would have taken you "over the line"...lol,of course the book was written well before the controversy. lol.
Hello Serena...i'm a ladyboy from Thailand. We like you so much We hope you come to Thailand....Good luck
It's on Serena! Fox news commentators said you gave a half of an apology yesterday. I've told "Mainstream American" to stop crying. They want you to cry for them Serena girl. I see it clearly. You don't scratch your head and bow down to no human! Jehovah is the True God. I am disgusted with the double standard here in this system. We don't have to worry about that though. It will soon end, and you and Venus will be entertaining us in the New World here on earth. Of course we'll get in for free. Ha Ha. Anyway, you know who your greatest enemy is. He's trying to break you. So, Just know that there are more with us than there is with them.
Serena!!!! Good luck with the book. (Really hoping for an audio version, I live in my car practically) BUT, on another note...don't you apologize one more time!!! I am outraged at the media and public response to a display of temper!!!! HELLO!!???? Mr. McEnroe did it all the time, and we hear the "oh, boys will be boys". I believe Roger had some choice words for the umpire last night...no headlines? Fined? I doubt it! Talk about a double standard! If that whacky judge is afraid of a fuzzy little yellow ball, she needs to find another vocation, and stop at the eye glass store on the way. If ya can't take the heat, get out from under the lights! Love you, love your talent,strength,and grace!!! I for one, and glad you still have passion for your game! Meredith Deibold
Serena.... I was disappointed but I have great respect for you as an athlete! You are very competitive and your competitve edge got the best of you that day. I do believe your apoloy is sincere. I will continue to be a fan and so is my 13yr old daughter. I don't feel its anyone else's job to be my daughters role model other than her parents! As an athlete...all i can say is "I understand"...not acceptable but i understand. Alot of professional athletes have spoke out of anger and regret it....Federer just did the same thing on Monday. He was completely frustrated and his competive edge got the best of him as well !! Girl... i luv ur play, ur intensity and ur passion for the game! Keep ur head up and listen to mom and dad and that great sister of yours, Venus!!! You are still adored by ur fans and as sports fans...we are very forgiving! This too, will pass !! Just look at the Philadelphia Eagle fans.....they are tough fans and Michael Vick is their good graces!!! Take this opportunity to make a positive change within yourself.....next time..think before you react! Best of Luck to you !!!!!
This is my first and last comment to you. I don't believe your apologies are genuine. Your PR firm told you that you better say the words or else. The way you acted was not an outburst out of the blue. It's the way you are inside. Another spoiled rich kid like Kanye West. Two outburst kids in a week - wow. Maybe you and Kanye should go off together and get off our radar for a while. Let some good kids get the limelight that they deserve for being good role models. Serena, you're a brat. Period.
Hello, Ms. Williams. The release of "On the Line" has prompted me to re-read Arthur Ashe's "Days of Grace". I will read your book as I am interested in the commonalities of your experiences in the sport of tennis and elsewhere. Good luck with the book and enjoy the tour. #1Fan
Thank you Serena. I hope you can but this behind you and move forward. God Bless You.
OOOHHH PPLLUEEEZZZE!!!!!! To the "gentlemen" on this page, let me review Jeff Tarango: Wimbleton 1995 Ille Nastase: US Open 1979 John McEnroe: Stockholm 1984; US Open 1987...etc etc There are websites devoted to "the boys" temper tantrums, but a woman loses her temper, and stop the world! Maybe Serena really FINALLY has leveled the playing field for women!
I have played for 35 years and it gets emotional sometimes. So what! I like the civility of the sport but one outburst does not deserve what you have received from the press. Sorry, it just doesn't. Any time you and your family want to see a good chiropractor, I am in Oxnard, ca. close to the 101 fwy. I will close the office to anyone else while your there. NO CHARGE. Go get em and don't be afraid to show your emotions. we like it!
Serena is simple the best
Serena: You rock. You are a true champion. Remember there are people who love bashing champions - there are other racist hypocrites who give all of the others a pass - McEnroe, Connors, Federer, Becker, and then spew their vile remarks at you. Many of them sit in the stands and sit watching TV - they've never competed, trained, or have been cheated, as in your situation - they just like to judge, not forgive. Quit apologizing and remember who your true friends are - never give in to the cowards who judge you in the shadows and take pride in your demise. There are vile people in the media (and on this website) who demonize and vilify you while taking pride in their holier-than-thou preachy additude toward your 4 second outburst, then chuckle at the "passion" of Jimmy Connors in the booth while the broadcast networks re-televise his rediculous outbursts at the ref over & over again, all with a twinkle in their eye. Wath the antics of Connors in the Krickstein match, when the ref actually made the correct call....Guess what, you made thousands of NEW fans who appreciate you for being real and strong in the face of the vile media attacks. Stay strong, Rick.
Serena, I can't wait to your book 'On the line'! I don't think that expressing one's emotions in an extremely tense situation is disappointing. That's sport, you're a warrior fighting for victories. Anger is part of the game: it drives sports people to achieve more. It's also part of your charisma. Your being feisty and gutsy makes you such a unique achiever in tennis. What is hugely disappointing is the blatant exhibition of society's double standards. It seems all those haters driven by envy have found a pretext to take it out on an incredibly successful woman who dares to express herself. Male players swear, quarrel with judges, smash their rackets and there's no social reaction. Serena, do not apologize anymore.
Serena, I am pleased that you have taken the first step in accountability for your recent poor behavior. I have watched you and Venus make a significant contribution to tennis, women and African Americans. With such magnificient talent and passion for the sport, it is easy to allow our emotions to take control. Your responses were part of a normal reaction to your love and dedication to tennis. The use of profane and intimidating comments and gestures only demonstrates behavior embedded in your personality. Please stay focused on self discipline and eliminating poor behavior traits, so that you may regain and improve the respect of self, fans, peers, and many others around the world.
luv the "can't spell dynasty without NASTY!" Nike t-shirt....genius PR stunt at the semi-finals....I really get it now, and I'm sure that it'll be rage with the kids now! And, what great timing for promoting the book too. brilliant!!!! As far as apologies....looks like you could learn a thing or two from Kayne....who would've thunk that he would show more class than you. LOL But seriously, don't worry about sending a clear message to the kids....Its not like they are impressionable or anything by your actions.... or your 4th public revision of an apology for your moment.
luv the "can't spell dynasty without NASTY!" Nike t-shirt....genius PR stunt at the semi-finals....I really get it now, and I'm sure that it'll be rage with the kids now! And, what great timing for promoting the book too. brilliant!!!! As far as apologies....looks like you could learn a thing or two from Kayne....who would've thunk that he would show more class than you. LOL But seriously, don't worry about sending a clear message to the kids....Its not like they are impressionable or anything by your actions.... or your 4th public revision of an apology for your moment.
Serena, thanks again for the apology. But you can stop now!! You are a great person, and your human. Humans make mistakes, some of these people on your website are acting like they've never made a mistake. You have apologized and now its time to move on. Go pull off another Serena Slam!!! I wish the media, Tim Thomas, Dave Williams, and any other fake fans would leave you alone. I bet these people have cursed plenty of times. Their just jealous that you've made something of yourself and they didn't. Your in prayers Serena... Now go get ready to pull off another Serena Slam!!!
Congratulations on your book! Bravo and thank you. I am sure it will inspire all of us. In regards to the other news ... am I the only one old enough to remember McEnroe? I personally believe you did nothing wrong. The media holds black women to a different standard (no I am not a black woman). Their behavior is unacceptable, not yours.
Congratulations on your book! Bravo and thank you. I am sure it will inspire all of us. In regards to the other news ... am I the only one old enough to remember McEnroe? I personally believe you did nothing wrong. The media holds black women to a different standard (no I am not a black woman). Their behavior is unacceptable, not yours.
This whole thing is just maddening!!! Can anyone honestly say they have NEVER lost their temper EVER? We all lose it sometimes! GET OVER IT EVERYBODY!!!
Serena - I am probably your fathers age and you and I know that there are different standards for us. (Hate to use the race card, but it is what it is). We, as a people, express our thoughts and behavior from experience and coming from Compton or any other poor or struggling middle class community, our culture has us expressing thoughts (especially when being screwed) very vehement. The other side is that when television show the Saprano's or other Italian shows, this is acceptable. I'm proud of you, your parents and the class both you and Venus showed throughout the years. (I remember Venus being screwed at Wimbelton and the class she showed. I wish I had the parents to teach me such values, coming from Brownsville, New York. Although I am married 36 years and have three children who never had a problem with the law, I am the one who got in trouble because I didn't know the way and didn't have anyone to show me the ropes, so I have a record which is hindering me here in Atlanta, so even though folks have problems, you are human and show great class. I'm proud of you! Melvin Blackwell
Serena - I am probably your fathers age and you and I know that there are different standards for us. (Hate to use the race card, but it is what it is). We, as a people, express our thoughts and behavior from experience and coming from Compton or any other poor or struggling middle class community, our culture has us expressing thoughts (especially when being screwed) very vehement. The other side is that when television show the Saprano's or other Italian shows, this is acceptable. I'm proud of you, your parents and the class both you and Venus showed throughout the years. (I remember Venus being screwed at Wimbelton and the class she showed. I wish I had the parents to teach me such values, coming from Brownsville, New York. Although I am married 36 years and have three children who never had a problem with the law, I am the one who got in trouble because I didn't know the way and didn't have anyone to show me the ropes, so I have a record which is hindering me here in Atlanta, so even though folks have problems, you are human and show great class. I'm proud of you! Melvin Blackwell
Oh yeah...and I would like to shove a f@$$ing ball down Mary Carillos f@$$ing throat. YOU HEAR ME MARY?????
Serena, I can relate to everything that you are going through. I am a big tennis fan of you and Venus, I want you to know you are human and that you will make mistakes. It want be the last as long as we are on this side. I say to you keep your head up. God will see you through this and any thing else that the people feels is not right. Remember God is a forgiven God. I love you and Venus stay strong. In my closing I want to say I hope one day I get to see you and Venus in person. You all are very talented ladies with a lot of class. Much Love, Pamela Jackson
Hey Serena! First I want to say congrats to you and Venus on another Doubles Championship!! You all are the best!! Thank you for the apology you gave everyone, and now just move on and keep being the best because you are the best, stay focus on God and he can handle the rest!!
1987 John mc enroe bit the head umpire for a bad call and got a 7,500 fine nobody talk about throwing him out of tennis
Dear Serena, You are an excellent athlete and a wonderful young woman. So you lost it, who doesn't. You made your apology and that is all you can do, and your apology was extremely sincere. Do not listen to all these people who have negataive comments, have they forgotten John McEnroe and Jimmy Connors?! Not to say that their behavior was acceptable but no one came down on them like they are coming down on you. You are now and will continue to be an excellent role model, hang in there! Julie
Nobody ask for a apology from him at all
We do make mistake and it is all about not making those mistakes again. The worst thing is when you are a celebrity people want perfection but when you look at the nitty gritty of life all of us make mistake. It is not about what race you from. So if people would be encouraging and upbuilding and stop people down that would make the world much better. Howwould you feel if you make a mistake and people constantly putting you down and call you names? Life is a funny thing. Wish people could just sit and think when I make a mistake what would I want people to say to me because if that was the case am sure comments would be different. But that is life, those leaving rude comments do you think you are better??
Hey Serena, just one of your fans from Canada. I agree with what you and your sister said about being human, you know we all make mistakes that we are not proud of when we look back on them, but that is how we learn as individuals. So I still have love for ya and will continue to watch you play no matter what. Look forward to your next event and to reading your book. Take care and much love Ashley :):)
Serena, I will be a fan of yours through thick and thin. I am pleased to see that you're ready to put this behind you because I totally understand that things happen. I am also excited for your new book, and have ordered it online! And I'd also like to thank you because you're one of the reasons I have gotten into running and became involved with Nike. I own all three of your running workouts, and I hope you make more! I wish you all the best and love you like crazy!
Serena, Idk if you read these, but I want you to hang in there. None of us know you personally or your struggles, just what we see on TV. Your actions weren't the best in anyway and I hope you really do give that lines woman a hug one day. As a fan of yours, I accept your apology and can't wait to see you win your next Grand Slam. You are absolutely right -- Jesus is the only one who walked this Earth and did not sin. We are all sinners and no one sin is greater than the other. God bless you in your journey on the tennis court and in your personal life!
Here is an interesting article from the New York Times concerning Serena's situation; Double Fault: Serenas's Loss of Serenity Reveals Both Race and Gender Bias Can anyone still recall the hazy afterglow following the presidential election -- that orgy of premature self-congratulation about suddenly becoming a "post racial" society? That prematurity was on full display the other night in the women's semifinal match at the U.S. Open between Serena Williams and Kim Clijsters. Clijsters's thrilling return to the women's circuit was overshadowed by an intemperate outburst by Williams, who menacingly gestured to the line judge, who had just called a foot fault on a second serve which brought the game to match point. Williams exploded in a profanity laced-tirade. You don't have to be a lip reader to see she yelled that she was going to shove that bright yellow tennis ball up the line judge's butt. Okay, let's acknowledge that this was not Serena's greatest moment, that she lost her temper -- it was match point in the semi-finals, after all -- and became both unhinged and enraged. And Serena is one big, strong woman. And a big strong black woman. Those two last points, though, seem crucial. Serena's outburst -- and the rule-based, draconian penalty that cost her the match -- were both racial and gendered. Let me be clear: I am not saying that the call was overtly, intentionally, racist or sexist. But the context for both the line judge's reaction and the chair umpire's call depended on Serena being a strong black woman. Ask yourself this: would the line judge have felt so threatened had she been yelled at by perky, pretty little Melanie Oudin, all 5 foot 6 of her bouncy teenage self? How about a white man? White men can express anger and outrage -- indeed, they're supposed to. It's one of the few emotional men are allowed to express -- and we express it often, and often without penalty. And sometimes we go even further. Don't get mad, the saying goes, get even. Hey, don't take my word for it. See for yourself. One of the pleasures of the rainouts and rain delays that marred the end of the tournament schedule was that CBS and ESPN rebroadcast some "classic" matches from earlier eras, matches in which the ever-bratty Jimmy Connors' rants and the once-bratty now elder statesman and superb TV commentator John McEnroe's outbursts were greeted with whopping rallying cries and often supportive crowd reactions. Check it out here and here. Line judges didn't typically feel threatened by Marat Safin -- and he's 6 foot 4! (Safin broke 48 tennis racquets in 1999 alone.) And watch Jimmy Connors in his famous 4th round match at the 1991 Open, when he twice explodes at the chair umpire (who seemed more bemused than afraid). Note that Connors was not assessed any penalty, and went on to win the match. The crowd went wild. Yes, Serena lost her temper, yelled and cursed at the line judge. Bad sportsmanship. Very bad. But the line judge said she felt her life had been threatened. (A charge Serena instantly and vehemently denied.) Let's face it: it's different when black people get angry. Even black men. Being a 58-year-old Harvard professor with a cane didn't protect Henry Louis Gates when he lost his cool. And Joe Wilson sure felt entitled to express his outrage at that uppity black guy -- except that uppity black guy lecturing him happened to be the President. Being the Commander in Chief of the world's most powerful military didn't protect President Obama either. Nor did being arguably the best female tennis player in the world protect Serena. She was a furious black woman with a weapon. Serena was neither ladylike nor did she "act white" and keep her cool. The fans booed Serena, as they surely would have if President Obama had ever taken the bait and replied to relentless race-baiting in anything but an even-tempered, even-cadenced, tone. But make no mistake: those same fans found John McEnroe's antics "cute" and Jimmy Connors' constant tirades energizing, and plenty of other white male players just too tightly wound. Memo to Gael Monfils, Jo-Wilifred Tsonga and James Blake: do not ever lose your temper. Ever. Memo to Venus Williams: double ditto. America's post-racialist glow only lasts as long as you stay more serene than Serena.
Dear Serena, You are forgiven! You don't have to apologize anymore. It’s enough. I've have purchase your book while I was in NYC last week I live in the Netherlands. Had tickets for the semi’s but due to rain delay I could not see the match, had to return to the Netherlands on Saturday 12th. OMG it’s so funny to read how you and your sister and dad took all your neighbours news papers and your dad had to pay a fine as well because Isha wanted to drive. I love you and keep em coming. Congretz to you and Vee with your 10th doubles championship. Your number 1 fan!
Hi Serena, I fully understand you. I am not saying you were right to be so furious, but the call was not just crazy (a fraction of an inch), it was also a 2nd service and the call gifted match points. Although Clijsters played impressively, with lots of risks and hardly any errors, your game was incredible that night. I do not believe in conspiracies, but I understand that inside the court it could have well looked that. It was just unreal. The only thing I am sorry about is that it costed you the match. It would have been still a long way to go, but it was definitely doable. You were for sure the best player on the US-Open court and the real WTA #1, sorry for Dinara who is a good player but no top player. keep on playing like that your fan Frank
Thank You Roger Federal he tells the ref to not tell him to be quiet and he dosent give a Shit about what he said and they cut to a commerical, Serena says the word fucking from a totally bad call and gets a point penatly and made to offer not one but TWO apologizes. Now what the f does Mary Carillo have to say now, talk about double standards lol they have no standards dont you worry Serena, Roger has made it ok to cuss on TV lol.
John McEnroe 1984 Stockholm final - Down a set, a frustrated McEnroe cleared a refreshment table with his racquet during a changeover. Glass shattered and fell on people sitting in the first and second row. John McEnroe 1987 US Open - After losing a game on a “terrible call” to cut his lead to 5-4, McEnroe sunk his teeth into 22-year-old head umpire Richard Ings. He berated Ings with a profanity-laced tirade - which included his now-signature line, “You cannot be serious!” - and continually pointed out which calls had been missed. McEnroe was hit with three code violation penalties, a $7,500 fine.
Still Love you Serena! no matter what
Serena- Keep your head up! I saw you on Good Morning America and I have been following the story. I liked how Venus also took up for her baby sis- Way to go Venus! Although, you may have lost your temper, you did have every right to question such a bad call. As a veiwer, it seems as though the media builds stars and sport stars up only to try to tear them down. The discussion of suspension is going overboard. It appears that they want to try to eliminate you as the competition. So, don't feed into the negativity. Don't keep apologizing, let's move on. We see you shining. Keep on shining for us! My 16 year old daughter also saw you on Good Morning America and I would be proud, if she grew up to be half the woman that you are. Good luck and future blessings- Jackie Jones
I thought it was a sexy reminder not to get you mad. Next time jump up and down real high about 9 or 10 times. You look like a jumper as I am. How do I get a date? You know get something to eat, do some karaoke, some drinking and dancing. Which one of the Facebook profiles is actually yours. Let me know.
You are still a CHAMPION. You just need to remember that and let it guide you in your actions. You're human too and you will make mistakes. Your integrity will be measured by how you handle it. You are a role model for young people, especially girls. Always strive to make it a good example. BTW - You and Venus ROCK at Doubles.
Hi Serena, I am glad that you have realized that your outburst does not define who you are. You are a good person and a good role model for many people. Serena, I am praying for you that you will allow God to lead you continually on a saved path, so that someone can see Christ in you and glorify Him.
You are still a CHAMPION. You just need to remember that and let it guide you in your actions. You're human too and you will make mistakes. Your integrity will be measured by how you handle it. You are a role model for young people, especially girls. Always strive to make it a good example. BTW - You and Venus ROCK at Doubles.
Serena, Loved your interview on GMA...you a beautiful human being, keep it up. You ROCK
Serena,as dissapointed as I was in the way that you conducted yourself, you are still the "BEST FEMALE TENNIS PLAYER IN THE WORLD".You, Venice & your entire family are a "CLASS ACT" & don' ever forget that! They still may try to sanction you, but if not (WHICH I HOPE & PRAY) they don't. Just go & "WIN" the year end championship & become the #1 FEMALE TENNIS PLAYER IN THE WORLD that you are. Stay strong, keep that edge."GOD BLESS-ALWAYS PRAY". Give my regards to "V" & "COMMON". "HABABY"
Serena, While it isn't what a role model is supposed to act like, it is so understandably human and maybe the lesson that no one is perfect is a powerful lesson for all the young people who look up to you. The admiration is based on you as a person who is versatile as well as one of the most talented tennis players ever. I hope all who think of you as the star you are can see your multifaceted talents, work ethic, and humanity. Let's all move on.
Thank you Serena for being a great champion...and for being human. To those who continue to criticize you, I think that they forget that you are only 27 years old and live under the scrutiny of the public eye. Hopefully these same people are as reflective on their own lives and mistakes as they are of yours. How lucky that we the public are afforded the benefit of obsurity when it comes to mistakes that make us cringe. Luckily most of us do have a rock we can crawl under for a brief time to reflect on our actions. Life is a journey (please forgive the cliche) and with bumbling grace, we can all grow from our experiences, good and bad. Keep your head up, keep moving forward and don't let those throwing stones from glass houses get to you.
I used to watch John McEnroe. You were the mild mannered reporter compared to that. It was a pretty bad call from the line.
I confess I did not watch the match but have been following dirt thrown at Serena for the past days. I have seen Serena lose games but all through attacking no one. The BIG question is, was the lines woman right or she was biased in her call for the foot fault? If it was a foot fault that was, then Serena should apologise. If it was a foot fault that was not, then the lines woman should apologise to Serena. Serena, we have seen you come back from tighter situations than this.You will come back.
I had been a fan for a long while. Always giving you the benefit of doubt. the incident and your total attitude immediately afterward has really c hanged my mind. Shame on the USTA and U.S. Open on letting you compete in the women doubles final. I think in any other sport you would have been suspended from competition immediately. Too bad they did not take the right action. Also goging on t.v. this morning to Suppovisvely Promote your new book is a total scam. As i said I was a fan.
Serena, do not know if you watched the Federer/Petro match, but Roger used a full 4 letter word to the chair umpire, the S---word. Pam Shriver siad "he cussed!" McEnroe tried to make an excuse for him, but it did not fly with me. Roger did not get reprimanded or lose a point. If they do not discipline him, then they should not do it to you. He did not have to go on public tv and apologize and the "newhounds" did not come after him. I have pointed this out to the USTA to get their response. They should be mad as hell that they got on you and not him. We love you girl, please keep representing us well and I know tlhat next time you will think before you speak.
Do you Serena! You are a great champion and role model. There are too many unrealistic expectations for the people that choose to live their lives in public. You and Venus have done so many great things on the court as well as off. Those of us who are die heart fans recognize that none are perfect sometimes our emotions get the best of us and in order to heal we must forgive & forget. One mistake does not dictate we forget all that you have accomplished. I watched you this morning on GMA and saw a young woman sincere trying to get past this negativity and move ahead. Don't live in the past that which has been done can not be undone and all you have is right now. Right now it matters how you carry yourself and I trust you keep your head high.
Sister... Serena, I have the highest most respect for you! Do what you feel is right and also there are times when one has to do what they have to do. So as usual... you keep on being the beautiful Serena that you are, and staying strong.
I am an avid tennis fan. I changed from cable to Direct TV so that I could get more tennis. For years now, I leave the room when you are playing but the same is not true for Venus. I always watch her. It is your personality. Most of it is contained within your body language. You express yourself as angry and intimidating all of the time. Your outburst doesn't change anything and did not surprise me.
i think everything is well said. just keep up the good work, we are behind you,
Serena, I am disappointed in your behavior but I know that everyone is human and that it was not just the incident with the line judge that made you so upset. I have coached various sports for the past seven years. Remember the same aggressive but controlled way you approach tennis. And I really loved the way Venus expressed to the annoucer yesterday to just move on. Serena maybe the both of you can host a show together giving athletes that make a mistake a chance to come on. Give thanks to God for this teachable moment stay aggressive but under control. Coach McCarty
Serana keep your head to the sky! we love you and will continue...your human just like everyone else, mCenroe and could name lots more!
totally a bad call! Like me getting pulled over last night for speeding...cop said I was doing 66 in a 65mph zone. Complete BS. So I told the cop that I should shove the ticket down his f'in throat. LOL Seriously, I didn't really mean it.....people say much worse than that.....actually, I don't even remember what I said....hey, I am just a passionate driver.....this ticket is going to cost me how much? wow, I am so sorry! There, I said it! Now can we please just fast-forward past the icky consequences part of my actions?
John McEnroe had bad temper, but he was and he is so popular and loved all over the world because people respected his talent and his tennis. True tennis fans will forgive you and keep looking you trough your game. Incidents like this happen in sport every day because we are all humans and we have right to make mistakes, forgive or ask for forgiveness. Remember World Cup 2006 final and Zinedine Zidane headbutt to the chest of Italian footballer. Football fans and critics forgive him and he was named tournament's best player.
Serena, I do hope YOU will actually read this. I started watching tennis because of you. I love the passion and the accuracy with which you play. I never thought that I would send a comment but here I am. I know that we all have bad days and I do think that we can get strength and comfort at times in what others have to say, even those you don't know. I will say this this to you, accept the past, validate the experience and move on. There are many more tennis matches to play and win and many more smiles to put on faces. Read the Serenity prayer for comfort and strength.
Serena, It is good to swear and curse and you should not apologize to any body, you don’t owe anything to anybody. I play squash and we all swear for every stupid shot we make. Next time please swear louder and smash the racquet harder, after all you get them from your sponsor and it does not cost you anything and do it more often. Love you, Ast
Serena is just a young athletes woman who can easily make mistakes like us too. It's too bad that she is a big star as an athlete but she is also a human being who can make mistake. I love Tennis, I play tennis - so watching Serena on court is always gives me the encourage to look at both areas "good and bad". I love her when she do good on court and I still love her even she do bad on court. She is as she is...let her be herself sometimes...as an athlete like her needs those bad times too to realize and to see where are their weaknesses and use that as a motivation to come back strong. Let go everything and enjoy tennis...as a fan be positive and also be an encourage to our athletes too. They are relying on us too as a fans. God bless Serena. Enjoy life!
ps....Serena, hope you can visit Vancouver, BC and I would love to see you in person....wishful thinking!
Thank you Serena. Everyone has ups and downs, and I'm sure that you will easily recover from this. I'm glad that you have apologized and moved on. Please don't let some of the negativity form the media and others affect you. No one should be judged by one action, and please be aware that many of us are well aware of the great work you do outside the courts. Also so you know, you have millions of fans in India. They are very grateful to you for playing there and keeping your word, after you could not make it the previous year. Everyone there got to see what a genuine and wonderful person you are. Thanks again.
Thank you Serena. Everyone has ups and downs, and I'm sure that you will easily recover from this. I'm glad that you have apologized and moved on. Please don't let some of the negativity form the media and others affect you. No one should be judged by one action, and please be aware that many of us are well aware of the great work you do outside the courts. Also so you know, you have millions of fans in India. They are very grateful to you for playing there and keeping your word, after you could not make it the previous year. Everyone there got to see what a genuine and wonderful person you are. Thanks again.
We all have our moments. Some people just expect too much. In the heat of battle anything can happen. I don't condone what happened, but no one got hurt. Let's move on to more championships!!! Goooooo Serena DelRosario!!!
Thank you Serena. Everyone has ups and downs, and I'm sure that you will easily recover from this. I'm glad that you have apologized and moved on. Please don't let some of the negativity form the media and others affect you. No one should be judged by one action, and please be aware that many of us are well aware of the great work you do outside the courts. Also so you know, you have millions of fans in India. They are very grateful to you for playing there and keeping your word, after you could not make it the previous year. Everyone there got to see what a genuine and wonderful person you are. Thanks again.
Serena, Please do not be too hard on yourself, you are human!! You are a beautiful person on the inside as well as the outward! Your beauty, sincerity, and honesty will prevail!! No worries hun.......good luck with your new book On The Line, I look forward to reading it. Linda - San Jose CA
Serena, Please do not be too hard on yourself, you are human!! You are a beautiful person on the inside as well as the outward! Your beauty, sincerity, and honesty will prevail!! No worries hun.......good luck with your new book On The Line, I look forward to reading it. Linda - San Jose CA
Tim Thomas? (Posting September 15, 2009) Have you ever made a mistake??? He who casts stones.......................Serena? Ignore the negative, life has no place for people who judge.
For a world-wide sports superstar, to whom so many have looked upward, your verbal abuse is unforgivable. You are a poor sport with a trash-, rage-filled mouth. You lost me forever as a fan and I hope you'll lose every time. No matter what you and your PR firm say, from now on, your opponents will always be the better player in my mind.
Hello Serena - Bottom line, you are a spoiled little brat with a perceived celeb status. Get over yourself. Take tennis out of your equation and what do you have left? You make me sick. Jules
Judith L. It appears that you cannot tell the difference between anger and intensity.
Night love song you are the best one. You win or you lose you are the sportswoman who I admire more, and although you have been confused in your behavior the other day, is to be thankful that you recognized your error. As for me totally you are pardoned. In addition it is that you are so handsome when you get upset… A kiss from Spain, Charly.
Serena, I just have to tell you that I have admired both you and your sister for years. Great athletes, great tennis players..beyond question in both cases. Among the greatest females athletes of our generation in my judgement. I also have admired greatly (even more importantly) the way both of you have carried your selves with class, integrity, candor and grace...a tribute not only to you but the coaching and mentorship of your father to whom I give great credit for the quality of young women that both of you are. You have both faught through adversity and overcome just about every obstacle that may have been placed before you and never with an attitude of anyone owes me anything...you have earned it! I watched the "episode" over the weekend and I was as taken aback as anyone with how you reacted "in the moment". This happens to even the best of the best...they can lose it in a moment of extreme and intense competition and that certainly happened in this case. However, many never get to the point of really understanding that they are accoutable for their actions and not someone else...I am convinced you get it! I belive the sincerity of your apology. I belive it is heartfelt. I belive you would hug the line judge if given the opportunity...and I hope you get that chance. IT is becaue you are woman of faith, strong character and integrity (you can thank much of that to a great upbringing) and I am confident this behavior will never be repeated again on the tennis court. BTW...I am not exaclty in your "target audience" as I am 65 years old (a young 65) white male...but believe in my instincts when it comes to seeing character and class...you have it and I admire it. Here's a hug for you...x0
I am really surprised with the general opinion about Serena’s outburst. I thought the line judge had very poor judgment making such a call at a crucial time. I would have boo her if I was part of the crowd and I hope she would not be line judge for any other BIG matches. True Serena should have said all those things but if we put ourselves in her situation, can we honestly say that we won’t have reacted similarly?? Keep it up Serena!! Side note- I bit more humility after losing a match will be nice.
I am really surprised with the general opinion about Serena’s outburst. I thought the line judge had very poor judgment making such a call at a crucial time. I would have boo her if I was part of the crowd and I hope she would not be line judge for any other BIG matches. True Serena should have said all those things but if we put ourselves in her situation, can we honestly say that we won’t have reacted similarly?? Keep it up Serena!! Side note- I bit more humility after losing a match will be nice.
When are you going to be in California promoting your book?! Please keep us posted! Patty
hey serena, i'm glad that you apologized for your behavior on the court. i knew that you would after you truly calmed down. and you showed your classy attitude during the press conference when there were those there trying to take you there again. i am so proud of you for holding out this long. i've seen the injustice on the court when they are pulling for certain players to beat you and not to compete during the match. you have had to play the the players,lines people, umpire judges, and even some of the comentators male and female who are tired of seeing you and your sister win all the time. you show your strength of toughness on the outside but i feel your pain through your beautiful smile. play tennis until you can't play anymore and it is so great to have a big sis like venus who clearly has your back. stop apologizing and move on woman of God!!!! and by the way true fans are with you when times are good and bad, good days and bad days and i'm so glad you good days have outweighed your bad days. keep smiling. love ya!! and get back out there and show them what your really made of. and play your game
hi babie how are you doing? hope fine you alright you from cali i know you alright,But what happen is no big deal it happens to us all it's just because of who you are ''ah stong black female'' so she was scared and didnt know what to do it's emotions it happens your agood player i understand you was mad at tha time pay that money out, that 400,000, you and venus won and get on with your life.you still tha best you got skills thats why you got that boooooooooooogus call on you. keep it strait and all tha way live you still tha bomb girl i luv you repersent for your sistaz peace love and all that good stuff ADDONNIS.......oh yeah good luck with your book i'll go get it to support you babie.pss you are so sexy xoxoxox........................you biggest male fan for LIFE
Serena - You are a class act! Please continue to grace our tennis world with your dynamic playing. You have brought many hours of great tennis to your fans. You have alway worked very hard to be where you are. I am a 70 yr old tennis player & love the game. CB
Dear Serena, You're a great tennis player and competitor, very entertaining, and although you aren't perfect, we all want to see the best for you. But please: Stop telling people, both you and your sister, that you are Jehovah's Witnesses. It's embarrassing. Jehovah's Witnesses do not compete in the Olympics, or in Federation or Davis Cup. You've been out of touch with the truth for a long time, and maybe you never were truly one of Jehovah's Witnesses. Satan offered Jesus all the kingdoms of the world, in exchange for what? He wanted Jesus to worship him. You've wanted to and have become a star in Satan's world. What have you been giving to him that should be going to Jehovah? Satan is no fool, he's got you right in the palm of his hands, and you two don't even realize it. It's too bad.
Sorry but it sounds like the whole foot fault thing was contrived to help promote your book "On the Line"....how appropriate. At least it was a positive way to suffer your inevitable loss to Kim.
It's amazing to me how at first most so called mad fans were saying if she apologizes she'll be pardoned,now that she's done it a couple of times it's either it's too late,or it's not sincere or what say you... Please, be as tough on yourself as you seem to be on Serena: prove to me who shares this website with you so called fans that you can stick to your word Serena was wrong for loosing her temper,it's a fact,it's also a fact that she bitterly regrets it and is sorry,why don't we all move on and give her a second chance given this is her first bad noticeable behavior... The fact is mostly the WILLIAMS' were always the ones being wronged by a tennis world that never really wanted to do anything with them,except to make money of of them and get them to get their sport more exciting and fun to watch... At last,I want to say,Serena honestly hurted herself more than anyone else in this downfall!!!LET IT GO NOW!!!
Serena - you are great champion and I still love you .... Good luck!!!!!!!
Hi Serena, I can really appreciate your apology and your understanding of negativity and positivity after all they do reside side by side; meaning you can't get a positive outlook until you have some negativity...negativity allows us to grow from our mistakes. I look at negativity as a little tap on my shoulder saying "keep things in perspective and stay grounded" People often forget that we are all human and make mistakes, we just have to hope that we learn from them. Again thank you for your statement and blessings to you onward and upward.
Hello Serena! You don't have to apologize again!US Open is forget!!! You stay strong and head up!!! This whole thing is just maddening! I saw you on Good Morning America.....BRAVO!!! Serena, remember that real fans you will never leave!Don't listen to stupid people and jurnalist! I'm 100% on the you side! I support you forever! My prayers are with you and with your family. Good luck with the book:-)))
I know that mistakes are the parts of humans life you are not the first and the last person that some kind of problems had happens to we see Zinedine Zidane Drogba and many others players.I hope you will learn from that and be strong.In every humans live we have problems somtimes so be strong,listen what everybody is saying about you and try react good soon. I want to thanks you for all the joys you bring to us when you play tenis and hope you will come back very strong. LOVE YOU
Serena, you apologized already -- No one has the right to tell you HOW TO APOLOGIZE OR WHEN -- I admire you.....Yes you could have handled yourself differently but you did not and in hindsight I do not know if you could..........TENNIS is your passion -- someone messed with my life passion ( in my case my 2 children ) and my reaction would be in line with yours if not worse........and I would have no regrets.........The call was BULL++++ and you got caught up in the moment......DONE........So for all you negative people -- your negative regardless and I don't even no you...but negativity like misery loves company --- Any positive person would no that it was an emotion reaction ---- SHES HUMAN -- AND ITS OVER --- Today's a new day --MOVE ON PEOPLE ---- LOVE YOU SERENA -- KEEP YOUR HEAD UP!
Hi Serena. I am a single mom with an autistic child. I struggle every day with this situation but watching tennis, specifically watching you and V, always helps to relieve my stress and brings a smile to my face. I was so disappointed to see the match end that way but I still have the same love and respect for you and your entire family as I always have. S..t happens. It sucks when it happens in public but it happens. I can't wait to read your book. Oh. the interview on GMA this morning was great. I hope I can raise my daughter as your parents have raised you.
Serena, please stop apologizing to people who won't acknowledge what you're saying anyway. Obviously there is a major double standard of right & wrong, good and bad in this country and everyone knows (without admitting it) whose ALWAYS RIGHT and whose ALWAYS WRONG. Historically tennis like other sports has referees, newscasters and others who will not want folks like you to win or be the best in your field. Since your talent wins out over your competition, they can't slur you there. However, they can apparently get away with making a bad call, which most of America knows was what happened in your case, but are too afraid to go against the majority and call her out for it. I see the media once again is playing into the hands of that "majority" I talked about, so you won't get a fair shot on this. But know you're in good company, as this same majority group is calling the president a liar and are calling the President, who is the president of our country and ALL of America names and curse words, Have faith in the America that believes in you and Venus and know what this is all about. The Donald Trumps and the Congressmen Wilsons and others like them, will eventually become irrelevant, but what you've achieved will go down in history like Mohammad Ali. Keep your head up and know that you are right and were right and had the guts to stand up for yourself. John Mcenroe, Jeff Tarango, Martina Hingis and many others showed their anger over inappropriate calls by judges and they kept on going. You have the freedom to do the same! Keep up the good work.
SERENA- ALWAYS PROUD OF YOU - AND SUPPORT YOU - YOU ARE AN ISPIRATION TO MYSELF AND MY TEENAGE DAUGHTER - YOU GO GIRL!!!!!!!
Hey girl, Everyone has there bad days and loses control once in a while. I haven't seen anything but good sportmanship throughout your life. You apologized now we can move on.
Serena: Annisha Lawrence was spot on in her assessment of the situation. I'm a middle-aged white male and even I can see the double standard and the hypocrisy. If the idiots out there don't think there's a double standard applied to a STRONG, BLACK, CONFIDENT, SUCCESSFUL FEMALE, WORLD CHAMPION, then try this experiment: 1. Watch 1992 the Connors Round 4 Krickstein match, then memorize all of Jimmy Connors tirades and mannerisms, including his threatening gestures to the ref. (Remember, this match was replayed during this weeks US OPEN in all of it's glory to the Arthur Ashe Stadium Tennis Fans due to rain delays and everyone CHEERED this behavior....). 2. Now, next MAJOR tournament, apply this EXACT SAME Jimmy Connors language, word for word, directed at the ref, with the same passion and body language that Jimmy Connors exhibited. Now let the fun begin - watch the news, the blogs, the Mary Carillo's, the stupid fan reactions, and the racist hypocrites who demonize you for your 5 second outburst and see if A) you are assessed a penalty b) you are fined c) you are appluaded for "your passion", as Jimmy Connors was, or d) you are glorified or demonized by the media, WTA, etc.. YOU ALL KNOW HOW THIS WILL PLAY OUT. And remember, Jimmy Connors wasn't penalized, he was turned into a National Hero for this behavior and all of you fans, bloggers, media helped glorify this behavior. Many of those same people are the ones offering their judgments and opinions on your behavior.... You've gained countless NEW fans who see you as a true champion.
Serena, People love to throw stones - especially at those they are jealous of. By default, you are a role model. That is a fault of society not you. Live your life in a positive manner for yourself and if anyone can draw from it - great. There's only one who is fit to judge you. At some point in time, everyone has taken their frustrations out on someone who didn't deserve it. You are not alone. Her call was incorrect, but your actions were wrong too. You admitted it, apologized, and have been penalized. It's over. God bless!
As MILLIONS of people watched you - and will continue to watch the replays - you shoved your tennis racquet towards the linesperson ... cursed at her ... and said you wanted to shove your tennis ball down her throat. That's what you did. Millions saw it ... and continue to watch the replays. Then you told reporters you didn't need to apologize. Now ... after your sponsers and agent have convinced you ... you offer a written apology ... but, still couldn't SAY the words on TV ... until you HAD to. You may have millions of dollars ... own part of a football team ... appear on an awards show and joke about lines ... have a new book to sell ... but, you DON'T have the respect of MILLIONS of tennis fans. You were upset about playing so poorly in the semifinal ... you were losing ... you were mad ... and you took it out on the linesperson. MILLIONS saw it. All summer we have heard you complain about your ranking ... but, ... you are NOT ... NOT ... number 1.
Serena what about a Black Tennis Federation? Huh, see is we start a Black U. S. Open then you dont have to deal with no bullshit. Im just sayin ok. Its just an Idea I wanted to throw yo way. Cause you see how many ignorant white folks there are trying to start stuff cause they want to get slapped. Serena when are you Comming to Nashville Tennessee. Thats where you will sell the most books. We have a bunch of Universities and that is where you will sell the most books especially if you promote them at Fisk and Tennessee State University. Im just sayin ok. do a book Signing at Fisk and Then afterwards we can get some Gyros emmmm girl emmm you know you likes some Gyros emmmm Spicy Peppery Lamb on that Pita Bread and Tomato and rice and cumbersauce oooooh nigga you know dat good you know it. emmm emmmmm emmmmm!! All juicy and spicy (kinda like you Serena) opps oh ohhhh. boom chic ah wow wow--BOOM CHIC AH WOW WOW!!
Serena you´re the best... For me you´re the number one woman player tennis... Love U.... You Have a Fan in Colombia..... COLOMBIA PRESENT WITH SERENA....
Serena, People love to throw stones - especially at those they are jealous of. By default, you are a role model. That is a fault of society not you. Live your life in a positive manner for yourself and if anyone can draw from it - great. There's only one who is fit to judge you. At some point in time, everyone has taken their frustrations out on someone who didn't deserve it. You are not alone. Her call was incorrect, but your actions were wrong too. You admitted it, apologized, and have been penalized. It's over. God bless!
Hi Serena. Stop hating people!! When John Mcenroe screamed and cursed at linespeople and refs it was amusing to everyone and it was excepted. There were people that would just watch John play just to see if he would flip out. Now that Serena does it its all wrong!!! Maybe she wasnt as funny as John but it was all in the moment just the same. Its a competition for alot of pride and money people!!! get over it and move on!!! Serena the only thing you did wrong was not apologizing at the right moment to the lineswomen since you threatened to shove the ball down her throat. John never threatened to hurt anyone, he just called them bad names!!!
Hey Anton Nomas, Serena didnt foot fault! how bout that? Explain what she should do for a false call??? Stupid ass
WE ALL HAVE OUR DAYS AND YOU HAD THE RIGHT TO BE UPSET. I STILL LOVE YOU KEEP YOUR HEAD UP WE AS YOUR FANS HAVE YOUR BACK.
serena your a wonderful person and who hasnt gotten mad before.. no one can judge you for that cause we all get a little mad sometimes your an awesome tennis player luv ya
Hi Serena, at one point in time all of us have made some mistakes so now you have apologised to your audience and that is a great move on your part. I'm sure you know that some are just waiting for you and your sister to blunder. Well i'll put it like this; I heard a man say the other day that he wanted this country to go back to what it was 100 years ago. This was on NATIONAL TV. Get my drift ? All I can say is prayer is the key to help us see the pitfalls when they approach us. So I am praying for change and that you and your sister stay strong. Be carefull & be blessed.
Everyone makes mistakes! Thats life. No one is perfect. Keep striving Serena. x
Anton. WRONG John Mac bit a chair umpire!!!
Serena, I think it is great that you are owning up to the statement that you made that night but I do think you had every right to be angry. I think you got a bad call and really bothers me b/c I know how good you are and I think you could have won that match against Kim. They took that chance away from you. I hope that they further investigate that call b/c had that lines woman not made that call we would not be discussing this now. I am a huge fan of your and Venus, I try to watch everyone of your matches on tv. I have Direct tv because they have the multiple channels that you can watch. I have been following both of you for years. I hope you both continue to grow and continue on your Journey to #1 because you and Venus both deserve to be there. Take Care and Good Bless! Ronda Stewart
Serena, congrats on your doubles win. That actually was one of the best doubles match I've seen you play. You tore it up out there. Also, I think it was very humbling for you to give a calm and responsive statement at the press conference after. I hope you continue to be humble in the future and grow from this experience. We all do things like this, but unfortunatley you are in the spotlight and will get ridiculed for it by millions. So always remember thats. But hey actually as I was watching the Men's Final, I saw and heard "Mr Class Act" himself, Roger Federer have a few choice words for the chair ref. Will he get some sort of fine because we def. all heard what he said on CBS. Oh and you should read the article on SI.com by Ann Cillion. Good luck with the crazy press and the book tour.
Tina Fowler: Quit re-posting that crap over and over and over. I saw it like 50 times yesterday and here you are again. Either get some new material or get out!!!!
Tina Fowler: Quit re-posting that crap over and over and over. I saw it like 50 times yesterday and here you are again. Either get some new material or get out!!!!
Tina Fowler: Quit re-posting that crap over and over and over. I saw it like 50 times yesterday and here you are again. Either get some new material or get out!!!!
Tina Fowler: Quit re-posting that crap over and over and over. I saw it like 50 times yesterday and here you are again. Either get some new material or get out!!!!
I am one of your "older" fans and I have to tell you that I am not condoning your behavior BUT when I watched ESPN and saw some of the EXACT same behavior coming from Federer, I was thinking, "O.K. where is all the negative publicity for him?" I will always be a huge fan and I want you to know that everyone is entitled to a mistake. Keep on keepin' on because we are all extremely proud of you as well as your sister. Good luck with the book. I plan to buy a copy.
From Kurt Streeter of the Los Angeles Times ... http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2009/09/serena-williams-outburst-video-.html "Kurt Streeter: Serena Williams should be suspended for the rest of the year"
From Kurt Streeter of the Los Angeles Times ... http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2009/09/serena-williams-outburst-video-.html "Kurt Streeter: Serena Williams should be suspended for the rest of the year"
From Kurt Streeter of the Los Angeles Times ... http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2009/09/serena-williams-outburst-video-.html "Kurt Streeter: Serena Williams should be suspended for the rest of the year"
I purchased your book and I'm really enjoying it. When will you do a book signing in Philadelphia or South Jersey? Glad you and V won the Doubles. You were fine on GMA....people need to just move on and stop being so judgmental.
From Kurt Streeter of the Los Angeles Times ... http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2009/09/serena-williams-outburst-video-.html "Kurt Streeter: Serena Williams should be suspended for the rest of the year"
Great tournament, It's so sad that u were treated as an outsider during this tournament. I watched from day 1 & i seen players smashed/slam their rackets and no warning...huh!!! It's all about learning from your mistake & moving on. I have read so appalling comments since the incident, very racist and unwarranted!!!! I read that Roger stepped out of line during the finals..what happened to him?????? Play your game & keep your head up :) Stack your trophies, we know who's number 1. If the WTA/USTA wants to suspend u for a year, let them see the consequences
Serena, Tennis is my favorite sport to watch, because it is the gentlemens sport. it is civilized, and the best example of sportsmanship. You have not apologized. You are damaging the image of black women immensely. Shame on you. You are damaging the image of black people. You are tarnishing the image of tennis, and bringing it to a ghetto sport. You are gross. I won't be watching any more of your matches, and I hope you get suspended. The final end of your career will be better for tennis, and much more importantly, better for the image of black women in our society. Get a life coach. You need it.
Kudos to you, Serena, for admitting the potential consequences your actions may have on fans. If only more athletes would follow suit and take a page from your book, being mindful of the impact they may have on their fans. I hope many people can accept your apology (even the cynics who believe it came only as a result of pressure from your PR people). Ultimately, you didn't have to issue one; but you did, and I admire you for it. About the incident inself -- while I, like you, would never excuse it, I do UNDERSTAND and appreciate your passion for and commitment to tennis, a career to which you have devoted your life. The bottom line is, you were playing with heart. Your disappointment at such an unfortunate call proves that you are human, that you really wanted to achieve the goal of winning an USA event. Your passion, dedication, and great talent are all admirable qualities. The bottom line -- your fans are impacted by these as well. Thank You, Debra in NC
hello.....well Serena thanks.... thanks for your words very encouraging...You're a great tennis player...congratulations and good luck bye....xxx
Serena's Outburst: Gender & Race on the Tennis Court "She's got to be pretty intimidating," said Virginia Wade. "She's Serena Williams. She's top of the heap, she's big and she's threatening, anyway. I mean, you know, how she plays. She's intimidating. So I think that's very much part of it." WOW! Bottom line: no one likes umpires to make calls that directly determine the outcome of a sporting event. So, even if Serena did let her sneaker edge over the service line, making such a subjective call that brings the semis of the US Open to match point was uncalled for. Serena's anger was justified. Now, should she have shouted curse words and told the judge from across the court that she'd shove the ball down her throat. No. That response was not justified or warranted in any way. But her whole career, Serena has had to deal with the color line in tennis, even when she plays in the stadium named Arthur Ashe who supposedly blurred that line for good. While most athletes are admired for their fitness and physicality, her entire career, Serena has been juxtaposed against the more frail, more pretty white girls she's played against (Anna Karnekova, Maria Sharapova, Justine Henin). Virginia Wade's comments to the NYT were to my ears as outrageous as Serena's outburst. To call her "threatening" and "intimidating"... honestly: is it at all feasible that the line judge felt that she was actually in physical danger? It's Serena's big muscular body that makes her "threatening" and that taps into a long history of racial framing. And of course sports writers have added on the extra layer of gendered gauze in their recap of the story. Ladylike Clisters who managed to stay composed (as the match was handed to her by officials) standing alongside her charming husband and adorable little baby. Clisters has managed to pull off what we are all supposed to do: find romance, have a baby, and still succeed at the top of your game -- all the while maintaining your feminine grace. Serena is criticized for taking time away from tennis (when her sister was murdered), for being distracted with side gigs (like getting a degree, starting her own business, fulfilling other professional aspirations). Time away from tennis to establish financial security or to deal with a familial tragedy apparently made her such a bad example that Chris Everett felt compelled to write an article telling Serena she was damaging women's tennis. But time away to have a baby is apparently something to be celebrated. Today, I find myself pulling for Serena as never before. She's accomplished many amazing feats in her life, but the color line still claws at her, trying to put her in her place. No wonder she feels the extra pressure, no wonder every now and again she rages.
I purchased your book and I'm really enjoying it. When will you do a book signing in Philadelphia or South Jersey? Glad you and V won the Doubles. You were fine on GMA....people need to just move on and stop being so judgmental.
All these people that are leaving negative comments obviously are perfect and live in glass houses. We have all done things we are not proud of but Serena has been through enough. It cost her the match (THE CHAMPIONSHIP) WE ALL KNOW SHE COULD HAVE WON $10,500. Isn't that enough for crying out loud! Leave her alone and move on. If you are on here putting her down maybe you need to look in the mirror and think back to all you have done in your life. I wish I could be Serena Williams! Love ya Serena and V! Take Care and God Bless you both! And by the way do not apologize anymore for being human we all are!
hey serena! i will always proud of u and support ya!!!! u inspirate me every day!!!!!!!!!!!!! u r my idol!! ur #1 fan from hungary, xxxxx
Yes, I was very disappointed. You lost it. Badly. But you've apologized and everyone deserves a second chance. I am amazed at the stone throwers and do believe there is a double standard...sexist only though. Stay strong Serena and congrats on winning the doubles.
I LIVE IN A SMALL GHOST TOWN IN ARIZONA....SO I WILL NOT BE AT YOUR SIGNING IN THE BIG APPLE. I ALREADY HAVE YOUR BOOK, SO IF YOU EVER COME TO THE SOUTHWEST, THEN JINGLE AWAY, AS I WOULD LOVE TO MEET YOU. I AM AN AVID FAN SINCE BILLIE JEAN KING AND AM GLAD THAT YOU AND VENUS PLAY WILSON...THEY ARE THE BEST AND MY FIRST RAQUET WAS A ROD LAVER AND OF COURSE BILLIE JEAN KING, WHICH I STILL HAVE. TRY TO CONCENTRATE ON YOUR FUTURE SERENA, AND FORGET THE SEMIS.....IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN A SPOILED RICH MANS SPORT OF ONE COLOR, AND IT IS A DAMN SHAME THAT YOU AND VENUS AND OTHERS DO NOT GET THE RESPECT YOU DESERVE. I WILL WATC YOU TOMO ON CNN......BEST OF LUCK TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY FOR NEXT YEARS RUN..........GO GIVE THEM HELL BABY, CAUSE THERE AR A LOT OF PEOPLE ON YOUR SIDE. OH AND REMEMBER WHAT NASTASE'S NICKNAME WAS? NASTY NASTASY
I LIVE IN A SMALL GHOST TOWN IN ARIZONA....SO I WILL NOT BE AT YOUR SIGNING IN THE BIG APPLE. I ALREADY HAVE YOUR BOOK, SO IF YOU EVER COME TO THE SOUTHWEST, THEN JINGLE AWAY, AS I WOULD LOVE TO MEET YOU. I AM AN AVID FAN SINCE BILLIE JEAN KING AND AM GLAD THAT YOU AND VENUS PLAY WILSON...THEY ARE THE BEST AND MY FIRST RAQUET WAS A ROD LAVER AND OF COURSE BILLIE JEAN KING, WHICH I STILL HAVE. TRY TO CONCENTRATE ON YOUR FUTURE SERENA, AND FORGET THE SEMIS.....IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN A SPOILED RICH MANS SPORT OF ONE COLOR, AND IT IS A DAMN SHAME THAT YOU AND VENUS AND OTHERS DO NOT GET THE RESPECT YOU DESERVE. I WILL WATC YOU TOMO ON CNN......BEST OF LUCK TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY FOR NEXT YEARS RUN..........GO GIVE THEM HELL BABY, CAUSE THERE AR A LOT OF PEOPLE ON YOUR SIDE. OH AND REMEMBER WHAT NASTASE'S NICKNAME WAS? NASTY NASTASY
Serena, in your book also add how may "F" words did u use and curse to the lineswoman. Also write how to act so classless and unprofessional in professional tennis matches. How can u even write a book. U cannot even give a classy press release. I repeat "I was like, whaaaaaaaaaaaaattt!" Instead of writing a book, go try to educate yourself.
Serena, you are still a wonderful talented human being. As human beings, we all make mistakes and it is important for you to know that YOU ARE NOT YOUR MISTAKES!!! Please do not allow that to defined you. We all have moments that we wish to take back and that is what makes us human. We learn from it and we move on, like Venus said. I will continue to pray that you will find peace and comfort in this controversial moment. Stand tall even in the face of adversity...you still matter!! I will continue to be a fan and I'm extremely proud of you.
Serena, I for one, and with 2 kids who also love to watch you play was surprised by your actions. I do howver agree that in the heat of a battle it is often hard to control such emotions. It is easy to judge from the sidelines and from the living room. I for one hope that folks move on and start to look at the positives in folks versus the negatives. In addition we all have shortcoming and are never perfect....... God, if we allow him can and will perfect us though for his purpose. Please stay the course Serena, live your like and remember that there are 1000s of us and kids that look to the good you do for the sport and the world. Be Blessed and encourage! Craig A. McGee Sr.
Hey Serena I love watching you play and I draw inspiration from your achievements. I know what you did was in the heat of the moment I am not a professional athlete and when I play tennis with my buddies sometimes I get heated just form missing a point, so I see, understand and recognize your mistake. Ive watched you for too long to know that this type of thing does not happen often you are a very professional and private person so no matter what the media may say or what the WTA might do know that when your playing you have fans cheering you on in the stands, at there home and both on and off the court. I LOVE YOU AND YOUR SISTER KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK, AND REMEMBER NO MATTER WHAT YOU MAY HERE YOU KNOW YOUR FANS ARE BEHIND YOU %110!!
Serena, as one of your many fans, i definitely forgive you for your behavior at that famous match. we must go forward and forget that incident. as i already told you on twitter, i finally got your book - i wish i could be in ny to meet you (it's one of my dreams)!!! for now i'm in little Israel... Keep going... Rivka (Israel)
Unfortunately I witnessed your abusive tirade and was shocked and very disappointed and will never pay to see you play tennis again! You are a disgrace to your race and your profession and should not be allowed to play in public ever again. I was there in Los Angeles when you lost a match a few years back and all I remember was your father getting up and leaving before the game finished. That speaks volumes about you and him. What a shame that you abuse your tremendous talent with such anger and a very foul mouth.
Serena, I saw your interview on GMA today. I did not know that your sister had passed. I am so sorry. My sister passed away unexpectedly at the age of 35. My heart goes out to you. God will see us both through, He has brought us this far, right! As for this past weekend, we all make mistakes, you have apologized, asked for forgivness and now you need to move on. God will be your strenth through it all. Take Care, God Bless D. Overton
I'm glad you apologized and now we can move on from here. Thank you! dog potty training
It seems to me that if Serena was white or asian she wouldn't be getting nearly the support she is being black. People out there, can you be a little more objective? Why do you all feel sorrow for her? She doesn't need sympathy, she needs to grow up and stop playing the race card (How many times must we hear about Compton? Everyone knows about Compton). If Serena were white, you African American folks wouldn't be saying all this crap.
It seems to me that if Serena was white or asian she wouldn't be getting nearly the support she is being black. People out there, can you be a little more objective? Why do you all feel sorrow for her? She doesn't need sympathy, she needs to grow up and stop playing the race card (How many times must we hear about Compton? Everyone knows about Compton). If Serena were white, you African American folks wouldn't be saying all this crap.
It seems to me that if Serena was white or asian she wouldn't be getting nearly the support she is being black. People out there, can you be a little more objective? Why do you all feel sorrow for her? She doesn't need sympathy, she needs to grow up and stop playing the race card (How many times must we hear about Compton? Everyone knows about Compton). If Serena were white, you African American folks wouldn't be saying all this crap.
You're a beautiful young woman and you're learning each day as we all are. I've just spent a good hour defending you online. It's times like these when people show their bigotry unfortunately. Rise above it and STAY BEAUTIFUL! Love Venus too. She's got your back. You both did yourselves proud at the US Open Press Conference. God by you both. X X X X X X
Ms. Williams, Your the biggest PHONY I have every seen- you are a DISGRACE, a SELFISH, and SELF-CENTERED person. The way you acted on the tennis court was uncalled for. If you wanted to go to the MTV AWARDS then you shouldn't have came out on the tennis court. You humiliated Kim and yourself. I guess your father was RIGHT, you ARE MEAN. Did Kim HAVE to pay the price, too?? Ms. Williams, was it worth it?? You wanted to make sure that Kim DIDN'T win. Your not a #1 PLAYER. IF you wanted to act you should have went to HOLLYWOOD.
Dear Serena, I have been wanting to compliment your parents (I'm a Grandma) about you and Venus for how eloquent you express yourself, about sometimes very conflicting and ugly sitatuations that have happened to you in the past.You have always shown good taste and class. You are allowed a mistake. DO NOT let them tear you down like they are trying to do with the President Obama. I did not hear all these TV STATIONS speak out when the UTA allowed your US Open Championship to be stolen by Capriota a few years ago. STILL Your biggest fan, Mrs K
Hey Nigger woman, You look like Mike Tyson in a dress...You foul-mouthed, low-life nigger cunt. Thanks for degrading tennis and yourself. Sincerely, Paul Smart
I watched your behavior during the match with shock and horror. Mistakes happen, this one was huge. But then the real damage to your public persona came when you refused to acknowledge what you had done and have only apologized because of the backlash. If I did on the street what you did on the court I would be arrested for assault. Yet you give a forced and clearly insincere "sorry" and then in the next breath move on to talk about your book. You epitomize what is wrong with some professional athletes today. I was but am no longer a fan and will not watch your matches.
Serena, you have not let any of us down. We all have those moments in life and I'm glad you are trying to put that behind you. Just remeber if you ever feel down just stop and pray to JEHOVAH....UR #1 FAN TROY VIVRETT FROM CHICAGO....CONGRATS ON THE DOUBLES WIN WITH VENUS
Hey serena not bother to apologize serena, we understand that there are moments where you can say any thing because it's harder for us. felicitataions for you and venus come to the cup and you are always the best.
Hmmm, is it just me or did Serena's 9/15 post hawking her book leave a bad taste? We can't tell her to apologize but she can tell us to buy her book? Bad form, double fault!
CONGRATS ON THE BOOK! I have it and I find it very inspiring. Great job winning doubles. You and Venus must have embarrassed Patrick McEnroe yesterday, I've already seen him on three different shows, trashing you today. Oh well, keep your head up. You've done a lot of great things in your life. I just can't believe how fast so called friends turn on you. Everybody is judging you on one incident, why don’t they reflect on the great things you’ve done for charity. It’s so easy to judge others, people need to stop acting like they’ve never said or done anything they maybe shouldn’t have. I’ve said many things I shouldn’t have, it just wasn’t in front of TV cameras! REMEMBER SERENA, YOU STILL HAVE MANY FANS BEHIND YOU 100%!!!!!
Serena, I'm very happy you personally apologized to the linesperson. I wish you had done it immediately. Apparently ESPN has it in for you and thank goodness for Venus telling Patrick McEnroe the crowd wants to move on. Remember, his brother has a job for his nasty attitude. He set the precedent and you were right to say he's your idol. LOL. I loved it. However, when you go back on the court in China, expect to be ridiculed because that's what the media is sturning the audience to do. Just like they talked everyone into thinking they had to root for Kim Cligsters and they did, now they have a non-american as the USO winner and aren't even talking about it. Go figure. Anyway, stay strong, take your lumps whatever they are and keep on stepping right over ESPN. LOL
Serena, just aswesome, you were great on Fox (yuk!!) as you took full responsibilty for the whole Semis stuff. Looking on other players like JP McEnroe 25 years ago (hitting a ball towards the US Open net umpire for a net clipper- not even a warning!) Pro Tennis will make progress thanks to you. Take care!
I'm very ashamed of some of the people who posted on this page. If you do not support Serena why are you even here?? For that guy Tim in the 2nd posting, you should be ashamed of yourself because I'm sure you are no saint yourself. Serena is a real person stop expecting her to be some plastic doll she is not barbie wearing that same fake smile everyday. Look to Beyonce for guidance?? Well, Ive seen Beyonce be very ugly. If all you want to do is keep condemning Serena then move on elsewhere with that. This is for the people who will love and support her in all she does no matter what her mistakes may be. Haters find something new to do with your life!! Keep your head up Serena. there is only one person who can truly judge for your actions and these people trying to destroy you are not Him!!
Serena you are an excellent role model, and your apology was and is sincere. Certain people want to dwell on it. You do not need Beyonce to look up to, she respects you. Just keep your head up, play the best tennis you can and move on.
I also notice that most of the negativity comes from men on this site.. Seems like we have women haters in general and get your facts straight. Go back to your day jobs!! Worry about yourselves and how the world perceives you because your actions on this page are not great by any means!
I think your outburst was a disgrace to tennis and sports in general. I believe you should have been ejected from the match and should be suspended for future matches. When that happens in other sports, action is taken swiftly. To threaten someone with physical violence for a person in your position is truly disheartening. I hope you learn from this because I know if this had happened to you, you would have expected more.
Hello Serena, how to get desaponted, you, that part of me can not touch me, because I continue to admire you and respect you always in the same way as I have done so far, and each have their way of thinking and rightly so because it is for me always were and always you will be the number 1. the invitation to meet you, thanks but I'm in is impossible Portugal.Kisses of your fan.
I saw you on GMA and was almost crying because I could see how emotional you were talking about your sister, It must have been hard I thought you handled it really well. Your book just arrived today and I'm really excited about reading it. If you could get away with it, I wish you would express yourself more like that on court - who said the womens game was boring? It wouldn't even be an issue if it were a man who did what you did. By the way, apparently Roger Federer swore at the umpire during his match with Del Potro, that hasn't even been mentioned. I think that's proof this is a sexist issue without a doubt.
hey Serena, best of luck... dont worry about what anyone has to say you will always be the best, keep showing your passion and your love for the game,( maybe just nt that intense, lol) we all love you and are supporting you... God Bless and Good Luck!
I think your outburst was a disgrace to tennis and sports in general. I believe you should have been ejected from the match and should be suspended for future matches. When that happens in other sports, action is taken swiftly. To threaten someone with physical violence for a person in your position is truly disheartening. I hope you learn from this because I know if this had happened to you, you would have expected more.
Serena, thank your for making a statement, as a fellow tennis player (although i'm no where in your league!) I can understand the emotions that you were feeling at that moment..it was unprofessional i agree, but i've seen things get really ugly in the ladies tennis matches i've played in, it was somewhat interesting to see it played out in professional tennis! It is unfortunate that you let your emotions get the best of you, with so much at stake at that point in the game..bummer. That said you are in the limelight and are "expected' to behave a certain way. Dumping the 'f' bomb probably didn't help, if you had stuck to some milder language ... oh well, point is .. "it is what it is" learn from it and move forward! Not sure why line judge is calling foot faults on such points, is there not a player challenge for a foot fault?
This article is perfection....exactly what I've been thinking about the entire situation. http://www.thenation.com/doc/20090928/zirin
From the African American journalist (and NCAA tennis player) Kurt Streeter .... "Serena Williams should be suspended for the rest of the year" .... http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2009/09/serena-williams-outburst-video-.html .... "Look, I still have great admiration for Serena Williams. I still think the journey she’s shared with her sister is one of the greatest stories in the history of sports. From where they came from, if the sisters had just been good enough to play college tennis it would have been unbelievable. Almost unthinkable. The fact that they are both among tennis' all-time greats -- mind-boggling. ... A fine history is one thing. In the here and now, however, for her actions at this tournament, threatening a lineswoman who made a good call at a bad time, the $10,500 fine she’s been assessed is an utter joke." .... "It was only in the news conference after the doubles match – the third time she’d had an opportunity to apologize more directly than in a statement or a Twitter post – that Serena verbally apologized. She pretty much said the right things – though it would have been nice to hear her say she was simply wrong and foolish, without all the gloss about her pride and faith and emotion. An apology was an extremely important and necessary move, but only half of the equation. The public seems to know this isn’t over yet."
Serena, You don't make that call at that point in a match unless it is so obvious she would be reprimanded for not making the call. John Mcenroe said the same thing that night, you just don't make that kind of a call and that crucial point in the match. it's like watching a close game in football or basketball, referees will not and should not decide the outcome of the game. That is for the players on the field or court to play out, that's why we play the game. The referees will not call a pass interference call unless it is so obvious or call a foul with time running out in a tie game to shoot free throws to win the game. My daughter plays basketball and they were playing a game in the 4th overtime and at one point in the overtime there were 7 bodies on the floor and 3 standing and no fouls were called. Her team won that game with the players on the floor and that's how it should be. Your reaction might have been a little over the top, but when you are a competitive player in the moment like that, I might have done worse and I have 4 kids I would admit that too seven days a week. Keep your head up and keep working hard!!
Serena, You don't make that call at that point in a match unless it is so obvious she would be reprimanded for not making the call. John Mcenroe said the same thing that night, you just don't make that kind of a call and that crucial point in the match. it's like watching a close game in football or basketball, referees will not and should not decide the outcome of the game. That is for the players on the field or court to play out, that's why we play the game. The referees will not call a pass interference call unless it is so obvious or call a foul with time running out in a tie game to shoot free throws to win the game. My daughter plays basketball and they were playing a game in the 4th overtime and at one point in the overtime there were 7 bodies on the floor and 3 standing and no fouls were called. Her team won that game with the players on the floor and that's how it should be. Your reaction might have been a little over the top, but when you are a competitive player in the moment like that, I might have done worse and I have 4 kids I would admit that too seven days a week. Keep your head up and keep working hard!!
Janet Dancey ... Serena threatened to shove a ball down the linesperson's throat ... that's not the same as just cursing. I don't care if she cursed ... she threatened the linesperson. Roger was sitting in his chair ... never once shoved his tennis racquet at the umpire and threatened him.
you are an embarisment to the game of tennis. one does not have a conversation with another human being by yelling at them, and shoving a tennis ball and tennis racket in the persons face. you say the call is wrong, sorry honey, we ALL make mistakes. you are HUMAN, so you make mistakes. but to react like a "thug" or street person, bc you did not get your way, and have a temper tantrum, take your toys and stomp home. should reexamint yourself. embarrising - joke!!
you are not a "great person" - you behaved like an out of control street thug. tennis is a great game, at least act like you have some CLASS. one does not have a "conversation" with another person by yelling in their face, while shoving a tennis ball and a tennis racket in their face. we all have bad days, but we do not behave like an uncivilized street thug. at least pretend like you have some class. you behaved like a joke. lost my support.
You are a phony. Your behavior on the court was inexcusable. You should be suspended from the tour for a year. Your press conference was nothing but damage control. Maybe some day you will grow up. You professional atheletes think they can do whatever they want. You are a disgrace and have no class.
Miredita Serena, Hope that you'll come back more stronger than ever ... I consider that is more than enough to say a singel word and media makes BOOMMMMM ... to me nothing wrong was done ... you've reacted as you felt at that moment ... that happened to each of us ... sooo please keep on and remain a real champion.
hi serena, big BIG FAN of u & venus. no doubt things happen in life at the spare of the moment but that's why we live 2 learn. i think u did the right things afterwards cause don't get me wrong i was watching the match from start to finish & i was like myself what the hell when that call was made, but like i said afterwards u did what i think needed 2 be done and some are going 2 always criticize no matter what. stay strong and keep your head up cause you are good at what u do and everytime i can catch u on the tube, u or venus i watch. much love 4 u, stay positive
Hi, I hope u get out of this mess and and not get hooked with these racist. Congratulations on your doubles title and please u need to work very hard to overcome these girls,u need to work on rallys and try as much as possible to keep ur unforced errors low. and always remember people ar enviuos of ur achievements hence they will always be looking for ur fall.lt forget that. God will bless you,Love you dearly, ever your friend.
Hi Serena: I am big admirer of both yours and Venus. I was saddened by what happened during your semi final match on Saturday, but who among us hasn't made a mistake. You have apologized...I think its time to move on...You shouldn't be penalized for the rest of your life...Additionally, I am amazed at some of the moronic comments on this board...Some of these folks should take a long, hard look in the mirror as they write nasty comments to someone that they don't know...Best wishes to you...
Hey Serena! You're still the best! Will always be your no 1 fan no matter what! Ignore the negative comments. Stay Strong!!!
I purchased your book, "On theLine", the day it was released. Serena you have asked for" forgiveness" so move on. Go and win some more slams!!! By the way, John Mc Enroe defended Roger Federer for cursing (on air) at the chair empire when the empire asked him to be quiet during his match last night . Roger used the S-word during his not -so- nice conversation with the empire. I will be glad when they repace those bias tv commentators. You tube has some interesting videos of Johnny Mac:) Love you in the Lord
Serena, I am sorry to say this, but your actions during the U.S. Open, where outrageous. I cannot understand how someone who has made a FORTUNE at this GAME can be so horrible and disgusting to a LINESMAN? Seriously, are you that low class that you had to swear and point at that tiny woman? I was sickened by you and your filthy mouth. There is no excuse for your actions, other then a nervous breakdown. I doubt that. Did you buy an expensive gift and send flowers to the TINY woman you berated and made to feel like a second class citizen? You need to make a PUBLIC apology to her and to your FANS, which I will NEVER be again. Get down off of your high arrogant horse young woman, you are not any better then the linesman. You need to step and realize that you are nothing more then a tennis payer. Deal.
Serena, We all have said and did bad things in our life, I dont understand why people are making this a big issue know one is perfect. Let it out!! Dont listen to the Negative things people are saying. Some of them are just mad that us as black people are coming up!! The hell with them. I Love you girl!
Serena, I am sorry to say this, but your actions during the U.S. Open, where outrageous. I cannot understand how someone who has made a FORTUNE at this GAME can be so horrible and disgusting to a LINESMAN? Seriously, are you that low class that you had to swear and point at that tiny woman? I was sickened by you and your filthy mouth. There is no excuse for your actions, other then a nervous breakdown. I doubt that. Did you buy an expensive gift and send flowers to the TINY woman you berated and made to feel like a second class citizen? You need to make a PUBLIC apology to her and to your FANS, which I will NEVER be again. Get down off of your high arrogant horse young woman, you are not any better then the linesman. You need to step and realize that you are nothing more then a tennis payer. Deal.
Serena, I hope you're not losing any sleep over the outburst during the semi-finals. You are a champion and you don't get that way by being meek and mild. There is such a double standard in sports, think about what we've seen during our lifetime. News was slow that night and because we have 24 hours a day and 7 days a week coverage, they run out of real "news" to talk about! Oh and Mary Carillo owes you a great thanks (she hasn't had this much coverage in her whole dismal career)!! Keep fighting to be number one!! Shanon
Tina Fowler: Don't see it your way, never will.
What strikes me as odd about this whole situation is if you imagine Serena's words and actions coming out of John MacEnroe's mouth, then imagine the public outcry afterward. Oh right, there wouldn't be any! It would just be, "Oh that silly John is mouthing off again." Because she is a woman and is usually so well-behaved, she is being punished more severely than any man would ever be. Serena is a serious competitor in the throes of a serious match and unfortunately she made a serious mistake. She has made amends, now leave her alone.
Hi Serena; You made your apology, now let it go. We move ON.
Hi Serena, Keep your head up high, and never forget that we believe in you. Be strong in times of trouble, believe in Jah, love your family. For me you will always be the greatest. I love you Serena.
From the African American journalist (and NCAA tennis player) Kurt Streeter .... "Serena Williams should be suspended for the rest of the year" .... http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2009/09/serena-williams-outburst-video-.html .... "Look, I still have great admiration for Serena Williams. I still think the journey she’s shared with her sister is one of the greatest stories in the history of sports. From where they came from, if the sisters had just been good enough to play college tennis it would have been unbelievable. Almost unthinkable. The fact that they are both among tennis' all-time greats -- mind-boggling. ... A fine history is one thing. In the here and now, however, for her actions at this tournament, threatening a lineswoman who made a good call at a bad time, the $10,500 fine she’s been assessed is an utter joke." .... "It was only in the news conference after the doubles match – the third time she’d had an opportunity to apologize more directly than in a statement or a Twitter post – that Serena verbally apologized. She pretty much said the right things – though it would have been nice to hear her say she was simply wrong and foolish, without all the gloss about her pride and faith and emotion. An apology was an extremely important and necessary move, but only half of the equation. The public seems to know this isn’t over yet."
Dear Serena, I have been watching you both since 1997 (Venus) and 1998 (Serena) with much love and respect. I can understand how you felt about the lfoot fault call but I was disappointed in how you behaved. My dad used to tell my sisters and myself to think good things and you will say good things. In your matches, practise to think only good things and trust me you will only say good things. Your oncourt etiquette was spotless. Go retrieve that etiquette. Go with God and focus on the future for great things ahead. I am sorry that you did not win your 12th Major but use this as a motivator to soar to higher heights. PS, I want Venus to win some more Majors too!!!
Serena, I've been following you career from the very beginning and proud to share the same culture as you. Tennis has been a sport I've watched and enjoyed since I was 15 years old. The commentators always edified the players and their style of play, and I remember thinking, how respectful they we for the player and the game, until the Williams Sister began playing, you ladies raising the bar for the standard of play and before our eyes, developing into true champions. Oh, and they are African Americans. Thats why it is imperative that I share with you the disrespect, sarcastic remarks, outright negative, petty comments made and initiated by Mary Carillo. She has nothing but contempt for you ladies not to mention jealous. And I'm always amazed how it is allowed, year after year. I've be write emailing every tournament regarding her behavior and never got a reply. Even while playing other countries, Mary cheers for anyone other than the Williams sisters who are Americans. When she does commment positively, its like pulling teeth, and usually something that can not be over looked, it would actually make her look bad if she did not acknowledge it. I know resentment and racism when I hear and see it, I've given her ever benefit of the doubt.............and it is what it is. Don't trust her, regardless of what she says. The best way to handle people like her is to keep on winner, don't give them anything to use against you and be the champions you both were born to be. Take special care, Dee W
Does anyone else notice that it is the boys who are so-o-o offended??? What's up guys??? Only people with testicles are allowed to be intense? I can't always say that I have been a huge fan. I always thought the two of you should have played more but I am starting to get the sense that you and V know what is best for you and the rest of us should just leave our armchair quarterbacking in the living room. As a fellow 'passionate' tennis player, I know that sometimes your temper can get the better of you. At least when I think I have been hooked only 3 other people see my temper.Hold your head up high! You have apologized. I'm sure you regret it. The media dogs will find a new bone to chew on soon. They put in the challenge system after you got screwed in the Capriati match. Maybe they will put in a camera review on the base line as well. After that we can work on the French so the next time you pelt someone, they can get that call right,too!
Thank you for giving me years of entertainment watching your career skyrocket. Everyone has bad days and, indeed, you did at the US Open. I wrote to the USTA stating that your fine was punishment enough and that they could not hold you to a standard that did not equally apply to other tennis players. Go get them Serena! I admire your passion, dedication, and obvious hard work.
Keep your head up Serena! You're still #1 in my book!
Serena, I am normally not the type to post comments on blogs, but i feel so strongly about your actions that i had to write. For one I am one of your biggest fans and will continue to support you and your journey towards becoming one of the most successful and accomplished athletes of all time. But please hold yourself accountable and display genuine sorrow for your actions. It shows a lack of respect to your fans and to your profession and peers. But i believe everything happens for a reason. and i hope that you really take the time to be introspective and learn from this experience and move on. Show us the true Serena we know and love!
Hi Serena, I just want to let you know that I have been a big fan, since you & venus both began playing. I want you to know that every human being who's walked this planet, has in one way or another, said or done something in a heat of passion, that may have come out in ways, that later we wish we could change, but being such a great champion & public figure, with so many expectations, from all kinds of different people, makes it alot harder for you, because they put you on this pettle stool, and if you display any emotions that don't fit their image of what you should be "all" the time, they take the "well I never approach." I know that many people may never understand what its like to be in such competitive, physical & mental sports, pushing yourself to be the best all the time to please fans, yourself, family, friends etc. The world loves you when you're winning, & expects it "all" the time, not understanding how it pressures athletes, to have to not only fight to win, in order to stay on top, but fight media pressure critizing their games, comparing them to other players wanting their talent & limelight just as bad, making a big public display of new competitors against the pro's, creating a "catfight" amongst players, who otherwise respect each other, and sit back and expect the players, especially "women" to be perfect, sweet, and "lady-like," all the time, with all this "pressure!!!!" They don't understand that all those years of physical training, injuries, setbacks, comebacks, pressuring yourself to stay #1, having to prove it physically/mentally/emotionally, could set even the best of us off in a quick, tense moment, such as you had, at that pivitol match, yet still be so harsh in judging you in that moment of weakness & vuneralbility, not knowing how hard it may have been countless other times, to hold your peace & maintain composure, under such physical exhustion & sweat, and not explode...People, this may have been just the day, where Serena had let out an accumulation of frustration over her frequent games, and at the agony of defeat of another "MAJOR TOURNAMENT," cause her to lash out, over the otherwise petty "FOOTFAULT" that at other times wouldn't have mattered much, but at that point at the last seconds, which she was still mentally fighting to somehow win, it tipped the scale over & she was not her usual controlled self...People, she's still human, but with a public world watching, with fine needles on her every whim, and she just had a moment of "I'M FED UP WITH THIS" Give her a brake & remember all the hard work, determination, effort, strong love of the game, years of playing "Hard" yet still expected to act "SOFT," SHE'S OVERCOME & ENDURED. There are still some people out there in the tennis world, who loves Serena the champion, yet not understand Serena the hard-driven woman, who sets high expectations on herself, sometimes harder than her worse critics, so forgive, think of your own, "GO THERE MOMENTS," whether private, or public, and remember that she's had to keep it poise all these years, while the "men" were allowed to explode, and be accepted as the normal, & this in itself is another DOUBLE-STANDARD ISSUE, that women in sports, and in general, have to overcome of what is "EXPECTED" of them.....Peace & much love Serena...This too, shall pass.....
Hi Serena, Just want to say that you are still the best. Don't let anyone's negative comments get to you. You are great. I really do believe your sincerity and regret for what was said. Don't worry about it anymore girl go on and play great tennis like you always have. We all have are ups and downs but, luckily God always has a purpose for our "downs". For you, it was a learning experience. I just want to say "you go girl, keep doing what your doing we love you!!!" ~Irene
Hi Serena, I am a young Ghanaian who admires you so much not only you but the entire Williams family who are making the black race proud. I just want to tell you that to err is human to forgive is divine. Your apology makes all the difference and I am very proud about you. You are still the Champion from Mike.
STOP APOLOGIZING SERENA! Your fans love you and know you're sincere. The haters will always find a reason to keep hating - long after you've apologized. You and Venus have brought style and flair to the game of tennis. In addition, you have done so much charity work to help others. Keep on doin' what you're doin'! Lookin' forward to your next book and buying tickets for your matches next year!
Hello Serena!!! I saw the interview on Good Morning America. Your smile can brighten any day!!!
Serena, you are the best! I think people should move on from the outburst and you should just keep focused on the positive. Its happened. I think alot of people forget that we are all human and every single one of us will have lost there temper in some way or another. When your in the heat of battle as you were, total in the zone and in the moment on such a crucial point, its understandable to forget the occasion and forget about all those people and get angry with an incorrect call. In heinsight everyone can be like, 'maybe that was a little over the top', but what makes you the best is your passion and fight out there - never say die attitude. You are a joy to watch as is the passion you bring. Can't wait to see you play later in the year. P.S i hope you got my tweets, i was tweeting you all through the match!
Hi Serena,don,t say about apologise because we love you. Please visit our country Rwanda(memory of genocide) We love you well came!
hey serena i just wanted to say i don't agree with what u said it could been done in a better lady like manner, but we all lose our cool at times i saw the game i enjoy seeing u play ur so powerful i wish i had those skills when i was playing serena i wish u had spoken sooner in the match a lot of ur shots were in an i was saying why don't she say something they cheat the whole time u were playing but you handle it in the end GOOD JOB GIRL.....
I'm reading through some of the negative comments people are leaving and im pretty shocked. Some people are completely blowing things out of proportion and getting personal. I think some people need to take a look at themselves before criticising others.
It is a sad day in America when an old woman like Mary Carillo has so much hate and spite in her heart she needs to pick on young ladies like you and Venus. In addition, I could not believe she actually wanted a higher fine for you or to have you banned from the doubles due to the events of the semi-final. I am hoping Mary Carillo will find whatever inner peace she needs because it is clear she is just plain unhappy with herself. Mary needs to take it out on ladies like you and Venus who have accomplished far more in the last 10 years than she has accomplished in her entire life. Mary Carillo is mean-spirited, bitter and needs a hug so don't worry about her. Just keep on doin' what you're doin'. You must be doing something right: you're still a champion. Whether we fans watch you play inside the stadium or tune in via television, we're still cheering our hearts out for you and sending you our best wishes!
Hey Serena. That's why I love you so much. You are just a great person all around and you can admit if you messed up. You are doing great things. You are only human and I'm pretty sure some of these main negative people would have reacted the same or even worse. But I like that you don't dwell on the past but look to learn from it and move on. That's what everyone else needs to do. MOVE ON!!! Don't pay attention to insulting comments like Tim Thomas and other ignorant comments. Keep doing what you are doing. I will continue to support you 100%. P.S. all of you friends in Charleston,SC still love you!!!! Keep ya head up and ask God to guide you. I gotta feeling everything gon be alright!!!
All yall who got negative things to say can go to another website and spread that mess. This site is for her fans who support. She is human and made a mistake. Get the f*** over it. This is not the end of the world. What is done is done. She already apologized and she can't do no more at this point. Whether her apologee was genuine or not is up to GOD
All yall who got negative things to say can go to another website and spread that mess. This site is for her fans who support. She is human and made a mistake. Get the f*** over it. This is not the end of the world. What is done is done. She already apologized and she can't do no more at this point. Whether her apologee was genuine or not is up to GOD
Dear Serena, Please stop saying you're sorry. Yes you went off, but for good reason. I saw the match and that was no foot fault. As far as I'm concerned, they wanted Kim Clijsters to win the match. If that lines woman had not called the foot fault, who knows what would've happened. AND THEY KNOW IT!!!!!!!!!!!
Serena. Te ves muy bien enojada, se ve que tienes actitud y virtud para lograr lo que buscas, ojalá y en el siguiente torneo logres el triunfo. saludos.
Wow Serna, "On the Line" What a creative marketing idea! Your a genious! Step on the line at U.S. Open get a foot fault act up and get a point penalty to lose the match, and then say you were not on the line. A great way to promote your book. If it wasn't a marketing gimic then perhaps it was Jehovah who helped inspire the title to your book as perhaps a way to get your attention that you are not inline with your actions and spirituality? Perhaps you are on the line in more ways than one?
Serena- while I welcome your apology- I find it way late. Why did it take you so long to apologize. I have no problem with the fact that you lost your temper-- we all can do that. I have a problem that your were invited repeatedly to apologize by various newspeople and you didn't think you had anything to apologize for?Truthfully, I don't trust the integrity of your apology now. I think you were motivated by the consequences of not apologizing rather than feeling true remorse. Now, this concerns me. I wonder if you have been taking some performance enhancing, muscle building drugs that have really had a negative impact on you? For this there is always help. In any case, I encourage you to truly own your behavior- this is not the first time I imagine- just first time you have expressed your rage in public. I wish you well on every level and send blessings your way.
WOW ! Serena Gone Wild .. you blew a lot of minds and once it comes out (ghetto talk) one can't take it back...you are doing the right thing to follow up the way you are now. It seems a lot of us have ghetto talk inside of us just waiting to come out, I know I do .. So hit the delete button and move on, and remember you are GREAT tennis player and if you fumble lots of folk will cram it down your throat. God Bless and Good Luck with your future.
Serena, I just want you to know that everyone makes mistakes and no one is perfect. I am amazed at how many self righteous people hide behind computer screens and pretend to be perfect. Everyone has said or done that wrong thing that they have regretted. I commend you for standing up and apologizing. YOu keep kicking butt on that court and keep making all of us proud.
stay strong baby girl we all make mistake in the heat of the moment, that only makes you human. keep your head up
yeah dave go shit on yourself
Serena, You are just the darlingest person, I've ever known.
I JOINED THIS FANCLUB FOR THE SOLE REASON OF TELLING YOU HOW REDICULOUS YOU LOOKED THAT NIGHT OF YOUR "OUT OF CHARACTER" OUTBURST AND THAT YOU ARE TRULY A DISGRACE TO TENNIS AND PROFESSIONAL ATHLETES EVERYWHERE...FAN CLUB MEMBERSHIP OVER.
Serena, i saw the "Melt down" as they say...LOL...and i saw you this morning on GMA. Certainly no one is perfect except for God, and although you are an icon, you are still human...and you definitely should not be judged on this one particular incident...it is only one incident, right????LOL...anyway, you need to come to Houston and do a book signing....I wish i could speak with you about a project dear to my heart....i am a stay at home mom with a son that has an eye injury that loves sports and a protective goggle that i am designing.....if there is anyway that i can speak with you please contact me at , my name is Jerald ...I adore you and your sister....you are a gracious human being and i'm proud of you.....going out to purchase your book and have a great book signing
I SINCERELY HOPE I NEVER SEE YOU ON A TENNIS COURT AGAIN.
Kenbe fèm Serena! kit se sou yon teren tenis, kit se nan lot espas lavi, otank bèlte ou reyèl se otank li klere tankou miwadèzanj (Haitian Creole) - Stay strong Serena! both on and off the tennis course your angelic beauty is as radiant as it is true! MESSAGE POSTED ON CBC SPORTS (Canada): As I said "Lady Serena might just resurrect on the third day nonetheless". Rightly so, she apologized to the Linesperson, the 2009 Champion Kim, the WTA and her fans. She recognized that the victimized linesperson was just trying to do her job and was wronged by her outburst. So, with just measure, a very REAL Serena recognized the humanity of the lineperson and even offered to give her a huge sincere hug, if they were to meet again. Unfortunately for them, those who only see "fear" when Serena is concerned might view this offer as yet another threat. When one reads the classy and highly intelligent way these sisters negotiate the so-called "journalists" attempt to pit them one against the other (see after match interview on the US OPEN website among other instances); When one reads about Serena and Venus' refusal to stay within the confines of what "others" had construed to be "their place", these strong trail blazing business women, who are designers, actors, authors (see Serena's newly released book aptly titled "On the line"), one understands why they keep hitting the nerves of so many people. Perhaps, they are mirrors that disturb precisely because they are not fake. Many of us have yet to come to terms with the fact that neither Barbie nor Aunt Jemima are real people. Unlike such imaginary figures that bring a sick comfort, Serena and Venus are REAL. Serena's highs and her lows force us to ask deep questions - not about them but about ourselves. For all this, I salute and thank the beautiful, powerful champions who forever changed TENNIS and so much more. In the end, the WTA used good common sense - and let's admit it - good business sense. Once upon a time, the beauty of Jazz was also imperceptible to many troubled souls. Blessings to y all :o) http://www.cbc.ca/sports/story/2009/09/13/sp-serena-match.html
Serena: Thank you for apologizing and hopefully growing from this experience. Yes, you are one of the greatest female tennis players of all times and yes you are a role model so actions speak louder than words. Although your hero John McEnroe loved to insult others out on the court that behavior was never something to emulate. Why perpetuate bad behavior? Instead, why not lead the way with less is best! Also, instead of breaking a racquet acknowledge you have a problem and get some help with anger management. You and Venus were awesome in your doubles match and you particularly did a FANTASTIC job!!! You were so quick and strong with your returns and a joy to warch. Thus, I would dig deeper not on just doing your best on the court but more importantly work being the best role model for others and that will come back 5 fold to bless you. Best of luck in all you do! Barbara MINOR
I wish people would shut up and not say arrogant and rude things to you. You are my hero. You are the reason i got into tennis because of you. I only hope to show half as much passion as you do for the sport. You are one of the greatest champions i have ever watched and i cant wait to see you take the grand slam next year :D
Hey Serena, You have apologized and they have to accept it or not. That's not your problem anymore. No one knows how they would react in a situation like that. Keep doing what you do:) Everything that you and Venus does is under a microscope. It should not be. Some just hate the fact that you all are great women tennis players. There are people that will continue to support you guys and I'm one of them.
just ignore d negative statement..they are so jealous on u...u r d greatest player ever...xoxoxox
I think what we NEED to say is "Let's Move On." Apology made, Apology accepted. What more do you guys want, BLOOD? The blood has already been given. Ye without sin cast the first stone. I thought so. Serena go and sin no more. Forget about the hypocrites. BE Blessed
sister..sister.sister...i have seen you praise God and name him and thank him on international TV..( as if he would make you win and someone else lose ).... i felt embarrassed when you swore to God you would shove that ball down that linespersons throat. I hope approached her personally and asked for her forgiveness and bought her a car or something...and pray to Jehovah for forgiveness to. We all make mistakes...who cares really.? We all need to press on to maturity...unfortunately Serena my sister...you are under the spotlight of the media. If errors were what was kept...who could stand ? Dont let it get you down....we are only human and all of us imperfect...we all stil love you. Stevo from Australia.
Unfortunately Serena, you continue to be less than honest in this whole mess. You state to CNN, "It was a really tough point in the match and it was really close and got a really tough call that wasn't the correct call..." At another point in the interview, you state that you really can't remember the tirade. If you can't remember the tirade, then how are you certain that you can remember whether or not you made a foot fault? (even though the video that was shown pretty clearly shows that you did). This incident is just one more in your long list of narcissistic, nasty, unsportsmanlike behaviors. Your sister has always been a lovely and gracious competitor. You however, are today what you've always been, and I'm afraid always will be. You may be the best female tennis player of your generation, but your very far from anything more than that. The men's game has a class act at the top of its sport. Too bad the women don't.
serena i think people are being way to hard on you, you had a meltdown under the pressure it happens to alot of people. i have been a fan of yours for many years your apology was heart felt and sincere and your true fans will continue to support you. much love...~sharky~
I was a teen in the 70's and played and followed tennis religiously. I'm still a big fan and enjoy watching Serena play. There have always been outbursts by players - some more than others. Serena's track record is one of passion and emotion. At this level of competition, everyone "pops" once in a while from the pressure and emotion. Give Serena a break. It's not like she pulled a "Ilie Nastase". Let's move on. Looking forward to reading your book.
I was a teen in the 70's and played and followed tennis religiously. I'm still a big fan and enjoy watching Serena play. There have always been outbursts by players - some more than others. Serena's track record is one of passion and emotion. At this level of competition, everyone "pops" once in a while from the pressure and emotion. Give Serena a break. It's not like she pulled a "Ilie Nastase". Let's move on. Looking forward to reading your book.
Girl, I still luv ya!! You should of slapped that bit*h! Just kidding ;) Luv ya!!
serena, we all make mistakes, and I except your apology. You are still my #1 player. Keep your head up gurl, people will try to bring you down. luv ya, God Bless marixa
Ms. Williams: I understand your high level of intensity and passion for the game. No one is perfect and know your apology was sincere. I can't wait to watch your next match. You and Ms. Venus are true champions and great examples for American tennis. Your dedication and hard work are what's missing from a lot of children today. Can't wait to stand in line next year to see you play. God Bless.
Serena - lets see how your "apology" is fairing with respect to the 4 R's of an earnest apology: Recognize, Responsibility, Remorse, Reparation. 1. Do you recognize your misbehavior? mmmm, not so good (you can't remember your tirade; nor have you mentioned your threatening racket gestures). 2. Responsibility: again, not so good (you still are blaming the bad call; and your intensity). 3. Remorse: ok. 4. Reparation: not so good (time will tell, but using the TV spotlight to promote your book vs sending a clear message to your young fans on your misbehavior isnt a great start). You could learn from Kayne on giving a legit apology.
So how about all of the crazy obsessed psychos on your website? Damn. For people who are "through" with you, they sure can't seem to stay off the site. Anyway, b4 I lose my cool, just want to say I have the book and have read it twice. It is truly inspirational and I can see you put so much of yourself in it. I was particularly touched by your trip to Africa. One last thing, I think a lot of the clowns posting the BS are tennis freaks who probably didn't really care for you anyway, but YOUR PEOPLE DO. For real. No matter how hard you fall it is important to get back up and YOU AND VEE did that by winning the doubles. That had to be a wonderful feeling, and forgive me, but I loved that Patrick Mac was booed. Keep keeping on Serena! Eventually the crazies will buy a clue and stop posting. And I don't want to get blasted for saying this, but it truly wasn't that serious. Yeah the words were bad but they were said in the heat of the moment after a HORRIBLE call. Anyway, you apologized so people should move on, find their spouses and make love not hate! Love you girl. Peace, love and many blessings.
Also know that for every idiot out there, there's a million supporters for you even in other countries as my international friends have told me. Love uuuu! U really are growing up before our eyes (even though I'm younger than you lol). I rewatched your match with Daniela Hantuchova in Oz and I could see you crying or that you had just been done crying like you said in your book. Tough moment...but in the end there are far fewer tough moments than great ones. My grandpa (who looooves you) sends his love, and so does my mother and brother (who looooves Vee) lol. They just can't post on here b/c they don't have too much time and are not as fanatical as me.
Serena we love you , every one has their share of bad days . This was just one of those.
Serena, thank you for everything! Stay strong and keep smiling like you always say. For real though, I've been letting anger get to me since this incident and have, quite frankly, been ready to cut a #$%%^ over what some have the audacity to say about you. I am trying to control myself. Also, I am SO SICK of the pompous ESPN tennis analysts. Girl do you know DR. PHIL was supporting you on the View. Also, there have been several articles in your favor, calling out the gender and racial bias that could potentially be seen with this incident. Also there may be a challenge for foot faults next year since that was such a bad call! You really are trail blazing and don't even know it. Wish I could be in NYC to have you sign my book. Again, best wishes to you and your big sister (who is so awesome for shutting down the reporters haha) and to your parents and sisters and niece and nephews and sascha! If you ever wanna tweet @elissecherie Peace out girl. Get a good rest, clear your mind, and pray. Really pray. It will guide you and give you revelation and clarity. Who knows what's in store for you now? You have always been popular but now you truly have a platform. What will you do next? How will you change the world? We look up to you for that. I know it's a lot of pressure, but it is a privileged few who get that pressure. Pray about it. So much looooove! TTFN
One last thing. If I could give you a big ole hug I would! I thought that was sweet of you to say! Whatever happens with the tennis, what matters is that you're a brave and beautiful soldier. You have endured a lot of scrutiny that could cause anyone to implode. That's how I know you're strong. Serena, I woulda flipped out a long time ago, back in 03 with JH...back in 04 with Capriati...you have been strong for so long that for me this is almost like a time bomb waiting to happen. When you reflect, if you ever get time to lol, think about that. LOVE LOVE LOVE the NIKE shirts. And you need a moderator on this site. I would do it for free99 lol. Anyhoo, how are the girls? I miss updates of Jackie and Laura or are you guarding them from the media. If you are suspended I will sue the ITF. Okay, maybe not but are you shocked at how far this is being taken? Okay, don't answer that. I don't want to get you into more trouble. Also, I wanted to give you kudos for caring enough about your fans to talk to them via twitter. It shows how truly humble and down to earth you are versus some others. Also you should know ELLEN has your back AND Oudin. They talked briefly about you and both were solidly in your corner. Just thought you should know you have FAR MORE SUPPORT than not. Believe that, and even if you didn't, you have your faith. Please please please stay strong and stay real! You are probably better than I think, but I get so worried about you especially after I read your reaction to some of the press. I know it can get to you, so stay away from it...even stay away from the good press. It just doesn't serve you one way or the other. Well, this is my last message tonight because I have to have a convo with my ex and put it all on the line. See if we'll reunite! Take care girl. I'm praying for you. Pray for me 2!
One last thing. If I could give you a big ole hug I would! I thought that was sweet of you to say! Whatever happens with the tennis, what matters is that you're a brave and beautiful soldier. You have endured a lot of scrutiny that could cause anyone to implode. That's how I know you're strong. Serena, I woulda flipped out a long time ago, back in 03 with JH...back in 04 with Capriati...you have been strong for so long that for me this is almost like a time bomb waiting to happen. When you reflect, if you ever get time to lol, think about that. LOVE LOVE LOVE the NIKE shirts. And you need a moderator on this site. I would do it for free99 lol. Anyhoo, how are the girls? I miss updates of Jackie and Laura or are you guarding them from the media. If you are suspended I will sue the ITF. Okay, maybe not but are you shocked at how far this is being taken? Okay, don't answer that. I don't want to get you into more trouble. Also, I wanted to give you kudos for caring enough about your fans to talk to them via twitter. It shows how truly humble and down to earth you are versus some others. Also you should know ELLEN has your back AND Oudin. They talked briefly about you and both were solidly in your corner. Just thought you should know you have FAR MORE SUPPORT than not. Believe that, and even if you didn't, you have your faith. Please please please stay strong and stay real! You are probably better than I think, but I get so worried about you especially after I read your reaction to some of the press. I know it can get to you, so stay away from it...even stay away from the good press. It just doesn't serve you one way or the other. Well, this is my last message tonight because I have to have a convo with my ex and put it all on the line. See if we'll reunite! Take care girl. I'm praying for you. Pray for me 2!
i wonder how an insensitve person like Dave Williams got into Serena's website. If he is looking for somewhere to spread his bile, he should look for somewhere else, not this website. For him to make such comments about Serens, shows he is an apostle of negativity. We only want postive people on this website, not Dave Williams,
I joined just to tell you how appalled I was by your behavior. You behaved as a bully and then passively aggressively tried to act all innocent. You acted as if the judge was crazy to feel threatened. You are extremely threatening and yelling obscenities and waving a racquet at someone, is definitely scary behavior. You need an anger management class. Sorry but I will never watch you again. I think you did it all because you didn't want to finish off being beaten and look at all the publicity you are now getting. Smart girl but still a foul mouthed bully.
Definition of irony: Serena hawking a book called "On The Line" during a controversy regarding how she acted over a dispute if she was "on the line"! woohoo I will be here all week! First apology: I don't remember what I said! (first lie) I didn't threaten her (second lie) Oops 80% are against me guess I will apologize about how I acted over call being "on the line" so I can sale "On The Line" ! If you don't believe it look at her post! Buy On The Line! and send my your checks, praize jeezuz!
Definition of irony: Serena hawking a book called "On The Line" during a controversy regarding how she acted over a dispute if she was "on the line"! woohoo I will be here all week! First apology: I don't remember what I said! (first lie) I didn't threaten her (second lie) Oops 80% are against me guess I will apologize about how I acted over call being "on the line" so I can sale "On The Line" ! If you don't believe it look at her post! Buy On The Line! and send my your checks, praize jeezuz!xxxxxxxxxx Does anyone see this as transparently as I do? We are so used to athletes lying to the public we put up with it. I didn't do steroids, I didn't cheat on my wife, I didn't threaten that official. Let's hold our heroes accountable. Character still matters, just like a real apology does, We don't have either with Serena.
Hey Serena somehow one has to think that God is pretty disappointed in you - not for how you acted or what you said in the moment, but for what how you acted and what you said in the moment reveals about your character. You sounded and acted like a thug in the yard of a jail. Are you really a Christian??
Definition of irony: Serena hawking a book called "On The Line" during a controversy regarding how she acted over a dispute if she was "on the line"! woohoo I will be here all week! First apology: I don't remember what I said! (first lie) I didn't threaten her (second lie) Oops 80% are against me guess I will apologize about how I acted over call being "on the line" so I can sale "On The Line" ! If you don't believe it look at her post! Buy On The Line! and send my your checks, praize jeezuz!xxxxxxxxxx Does anyone see this as transparently as I do? We are so used to athletes lying to the public we put up with it. I didn't do steroids, I didn't cheat on my wife, I didn't threaten that official. Let's hold our heroes accountable. Character still matters, just like a real apology does, We don't have either with Serena.
At such moments friends are checked! Serena remain such what you are. I trust you.
Definition of irony: Serena hawking a book called "On The Line" during a controversy regarding how she acted over a dispute if she was "on the line"! woohoo I will be here all week! First apology: I don't remember what I said! (first lie) I didn't threaten her (second lie) Oops 80% are against me guess I will apologize about how I acted over call being "on the line" so I can sale "On The Line" ! If you don't believe it look at her post! Buy On The Line! and send my your checks, praize jeezuz!xxxxxxxxxx Does anyone see this as transparently as I do? We are so used to athletes lying to the public we put up with it. I didn't do steroids, I didn't cheat on my wife, I didn't threaten that official. Let's hold our heroes accountable. Character still matters, just like a real apology does, We don't have either with Serena.
Your behavior on the court was appalling! You have lost a fan through my daughter. I was ashamed to have to explain your awful use of your language to her, I will never watch another match of yours again!
Serena I have been watching you play for quite some time and because of you my four year old daughter loves the sport. I have watch commentators discredit you and Venus for years and there is nothing said about that. You both are some very strong women, I would have blew up a long time ago with all the racist comments you both have to go threw on a daily basis, and especially at tournaments. It is a shame that you get worst treatment at home than you do aboard. Just know the God is with you and I am praying for you and with you. God bless you and Venus in every endeavor that you set out to do. Many Many blessing to you. YOU ARE NUMBER ONE and nobody can take that away from you, no matter what the stats say. Much Love,
Im very proud of u sister.... i watched yr match with kim and was very disappointed.I wanted u to win and i dint weant kim to make history as the 3rd come back mom to win a slam.I wish u had played the serena game.u a fighter that i knw.if mybe tha foolish lady didnt cal tha foot fault maybe yu was gonna win who knws.anyways wish u luck on the upcomin event china open i think.i will be watching.thnx 4 apologising though she didnt deserve it lol.one qstion i have r u datyin common lol just sio i know cos if u do u 2 look good together.cheers hun will alwais luv yaa.
Definition of irony: Serena hawking a book called "On The Line" during a controversy regarding how she acted over a dispute if she was "on the line"! woohoo I will be here all week! First apology: I don't remember what I said! (first lie) I didn't threaten her (second lie) Oops 80% are against me guess I will apologize about how I acted over call being "on the line" so I can sale "On The Line" ! If you don't believe it look at her post! Buy On The Line! and send my your checks, praize jeezuz!xxxxxxxxxx Does anyone see this as transparently as I do? We are so used to athletes lying to the public we put up with it. I didn't do steroids, I didn't cheat on my wife, I didn't threaten that official. Let's hold our heroes accountable. Character still matters, just like a real apology does, We don't have either with Serena.
Envious persons of 10 years waited, mistakes{errors} from Serena. But this mistake{error} has shown, that Serena too the person, as well as all we. Why did not condemn others which made similar mistakes{errors}? If Serena disqualify, then again to refereeing all will escape punishment. You (envious persons) want "validity", but then validity for all! For example russian girls openly in Russian during a match named Serena " black bitch ". Why do not judge them?
Wow! isnt it interesting that we wont know truely if Kim Clijsters won until they play again cause the officials cheated!! I cant wait to see Serena wipe the floor with that bitch!!
You and Venus were a treat to watch in the Doubles final on the Tennis Channel. Hope next year's goal is the never-before-accomplished Grand Slam in women's doubles. As for your apology, wish you had insisted on a quid pro quo instead of just laying your neck down: a direct apology only in return for a formal USTA investigation into the foot fault calls against you and Venus in the Open. What was it ? Seven against Venus in one match and the two crucial calls against you in the final set with Clijsters - the first negating a service ace that could have led to a 4-2 lead instead of a service break and a 3-3 tie. That would achieve a sense of balance and fair play in the matter. I was just looking at your rap sheet and, lo and behold, it was clean before Saturday's semi. Then compared it to McEnroe's which went on page after page indicating a habitual career offender. When a girl who has played within the rules w/o complaint all her career is provoked by tennis officialdom into such an uncharacteristic angry outburst, the provocation itself must be investigated or fair play and justice disappear like a morning mist or an evening shadow. Verbal violence does not occur in a vacuum. What you told the linesman to do was to stay quiet and thus do what officials know they need to do - not needlessly intrude into a match and adversely effect the outcome. Well, you had good company.The USTA managed to provoke two of its best mannered and rule abiding players to uncharacteristic outbursts. You and Roger - hardly a pair of tennis bad boys/girls.
Tina Fowler is a dumb bitch!! and this person calling themselves Michael Jackson is a bigger dumb ass mothafuka!! this ass said that Serena shouldnt call herself a Jehovahs witness cause she plays sports. But she uses the Name Michael Jackson. Why would you use the name Michael Jackson if you are so devout Jehovahs witness? And why are you saying that black people wouldnt be defending Serena if she was white? What does it matter?? You are one dumb mothafuka!!!
And thats the way it should be Serena. I wonder if the book is available in South Africa yet ? Would you know ? Regards Antonio Nobin Durban South Africa
dont worry serena you are the BEST for all your fans and the usa you are the n°1 goodbye .......
Unfortunately this is how people are, you can do 1000 good things and the one bad thing you do is the one they crucify you for, I've been there, done that. People are gloating that's the nature of the beast. I guess what I'm trying to say is, one must just close the eyes and ears from the nay sayers and move on. You can't please everybody like Abe Lincoln put it so eloquently. Just please: Remain honest and don't play any PR tricks, go to rehab or join the "Celebrities against Profanities" charity or any such thing. Being oneself is the best defense. People bite every crumb you throw down at them. Don't give them any fodder and they will eventually move on :) Well, good luck with it, it's hard the first time.
Wow Serena, how crazy. Having to go straight from the debacle at the Open onto a book tour. Hope the old saying that no publicity is bad publicity is true. Thank goodness you are a well rounded young woman who is talented in more than one area. I do hope you have hired some lawyers to shut down the ITF "investigation." It is an unjustified witch hunt. You've already been duly punished. Your critics unfortunately are taking this one and only opportunity in 10 years to try and bring you down. Our ancestors have survived much worse. Keep your head up knowing you've got a huge number of supporters in your corner.My friends and family are actively emailing on your behalf. :)
First and foremost I must say that I was dissapointed, sure it was an uncorrect call but it was a terrible way to end the match. But I understand that you are after all human and fans must come to realize that it is impossible to hold you in a pedastool believing that you do no wrong. What really frustrates me is the double standard that is being employed here why are you being sacrificed and looked down on when your male counterparts (Connors namely) have basically done the same in insulting linesmen? People grow up and stop with the bashing and the judgment, until you walk a mile in someone's shoes then speak in the meantime withhold judgment because I am pretty sure we have all lost our temper and reacted just like Serena did, if not worst. Serena I truly hope you learn and grow from this minor setback, I hope your book promotion goes well and people focus on the positive and not the negative. Keep your head up! I sure do wish you win the rest of the tournaments you are entered, I believe you said that if you didn't win the Open you'd have to win the rest so I hope you concentrate on your tennis. Omar
First and foremost I must say that I was dissapointed, sure it was an uncorrect call but it was a terrible way to end the match. But I understand that you are after all human and fans must come to realize that it is impossible to hold you in a pedastool believing that you do no wrong. What really frustrates me is the double standard that is being employed here why are you being sacrificed and looked down on when your male counterparts (Connors namely) have basically done the same in insulting linesmen? People grow up and stop with the bashing and the judgment, until you walk a mile in someone's shoes then speak in the meantime withhold judgment because I am pretty sure we have all lost our temper and reacted just like Serena did, if not worst. Serena I truly hope you learn and grow from this minor setback, I hope your book promotion goes well and people focus on the positive and not the negative. Keep your head up! I sure do wish you win the rest of the tournaments you are entered, I believe you said that if you didn't win the Open you'd have to win the rest so I hope you concentrate on your tennis. Omar
I wish people would give Serena a break she has said sorry. What is done is done. what is the need to keep going on about it? I don't blame Serena for getting mad i would! It's the semi finals of us open! She got a Bad call there is no way she foot faulted! Serena will learn from this and put it behind her, like i everyone else should. Congratulations on the doubles i hope you win end of year championships and be doubles num 1. Your book is amazing. Go Serena xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
From Sally Jenkins ... The Washington Post ... "The only word we need to hear from Williams is "inexcusable. The only gesture we need from her is acquiescence to a suspension, the standard punishment in any sport for menacing an official. The International Tennis Federation is currently "reviewing" the tirade, but what is there to review? This isn't the Zapruder film, her lips were readable and her words were audible over the courtside microphones: She cursed and threatened physical violence. Thus far she has suffered a mere $10,000 fine. She has handbags that cost more. Williams should help the ITF out: She should call Bill Babcock, the man in charge of her review, and volunteer for a suspension because she wishes not just to apologize, but to atone, in the best interest of the game. You don't win nearly a dozen Grand Slam titles without some kind of fierce commitment. But it's unclear whether Williams's commitment extends beyond herself. Does she subscribe to the underlying values of tennis? Does she care about the overall health of the game, does she wish for it to grow, recommend that others play it, and respect its admittedly hushed, old-fashioned standards of civility? Williams and her defenders argue her conduct was no worse than that of some the sport's infamous others. But John McEnroe at his worst never crossed the line that she did, though he came close at the 1987 U.S. Open when he intimidated and cussed officials -- after which he was rightly suspended for two months -- and at the 1990 Australian Open, when he was tossed for similar offenses. As McEnroe himself said of such behavior, "I can't defend the indefensible." http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/09/15/AR2009091503199.html
just like KIMs,i think we all can make a change that were not BEFORE and even AFTER we become dads and mums..keep it up serena and continue being positive now and after. TV,HAMISI,VIHIGA,KENYA.
there is nothing great like being OLD as in having a family and continuing to live positively in ab MUTUAL way. TV,HAMISI,VIHIGA,KENYA.
I agree with Annisha Lawrence down there big time. But to add to it I'm tired of a lot of people to me kind of being condescending. Most people by saying Serena needs to apologize right after the match seem to believe they would if they were to yell at someone? I don't remember the last time someone yelled at someone and was able to apologize right after let alone an hour after it happened even? Besides most people would agree not to call that even if it was a footfault there isn't a overwhelming advantage to me. But anyway for those who are saying "well thats it" and think this is "Defining" I just think you might want to check other people in your own life and the mirror. We're not perfect these athletes live under a microscope and you have critics/journalists waiting like sharks really. And for tennis players they work from earlier in their life and hours a day to get to these moments. So you can't get caught in the moment. Sure it was too much but I can't sit here and say "I'd never do THAT" theres not much difference from Federer yelling- McEnroe yelling or Serena except she gave a cartoony threat. I admit a threat is obviously worse but not by as much as people want to paint it. Why don't people also reference her match with Capriati where the ump clearly botched the call. Serena over her entire career has been great one blip shouldn't be responded to like this gimme a break. Anyway nice tournament Serena hope to see you back on the court soon.
I agree with Annisha Lawrence down there big time. But to add to it I'm tired of a lot of people to me kind of being condescending. Most people by saying Serena needs to apologize right after the match seem to believe they would if they were to yell at someone? I don't remember the last time someone yelled at someone and was able to apologize right after let alone an hour after it happened even? Besides most people would agree not to call that even if it was a footfault there isn't a overwhelming advantage to me. But anyway for those who are saying "well thats it" and think this is "Defining" I just think you might want to check other people in your own life and the mirror. We're not perfect these athletes live under a microscope and you have critics/journalists waiting like sharks really. And for tennis players they work from earlier in their life and hours a day to get to these moments. So you can't get caught in the moment. Sure it was too much but I can't sit here and say "I'd never do THAT" theres not much difference from Federer yelling- McEnroe yelling or Serena except she gave a cartoony threat. I admit a threat is obviously worse but not by as much as people want to paint it. Why don't people also reference her match with Capriati where the ump clearly botched the call. Serena over her entire career has been great one blip shouldn't be responded to like this gimme a break. Anyway nice tournament Serena hope to see you back on the court soon.
I'm from the south and in the south. Most people, and you know who you are, are making your "tirade" much bigger than it is because you're a BLACK FEMALE. Did you get carried away? YES! But I will say it for you, when J. McEnroe and J. Connors and others in recent history were/are out there cursing, ranting, and raving; it's being fired up and their passion for the game. All of a sudden for you it equals a fine. I'm really ok with that, but talking about suspending you! Come on people! you and Venus are the reason tennis has been getting so much attention lately...keep your head up!
I agree with Annisha Lawrence down there big time. But to add to it I'm tired of a lot of people to me kind of being condescending. Most people by saying Serena needs to apologize right after the match seem to believe they would if they were to yell at someone? I don't remember the last time someone yelled at someone and was able to apologize right after let alone an hour after it happened even? Besides most people would agree not to call that even if it was a footfault there isn't a overwhelming advantage to me. But anyway for those who are saying "well thats it" and think this is "Defining" I just think you might want to check other people in your own life and the mirror. We're not perfect these athletes live under a microscope and you have critics/journalists waiting like sharks really. And for tennis players they work from earlier in their life and hours a day to get to these moments. So you can't get caught in the moment. Sure it was too much but I can't sit here and say "I'd never do THAT" theres not much difference from Federer yelling- McEnroe yelling or Serena except she gave a cartoony threat. I admit a threat is obviously worse but not by as much as people want to paint it. Why don't people also reference her match with Capriati where the ump clearly botched the call. Serena over her entire career has been great one blip shouldn't be responded to like this gimme a break. Anyway nice tournament Serena hope to see you back on the court soon.
As if your behavior wasn't bad enough, you then have the audacity to try and use it to sell a book tour? Shame on you. Your actions in the semi final have no excuse. None. Don't think that the fact that the call was in or out has any relevance at all, it doesn't. The simple fact is you lost, and you couldn't handle losing. Then, to make it worse, you had to drop to the lowest levels of racism, the sort you have fought against throughout your own career. Which I, for one, now hope is over.
Hmm, obviously Tina Flower is a pitiful person and might need a help of a psychiatrist. Oh well, those haters will always find something against Serena even if Serena wouldn´t make any mistake in her life ever. They are sick of jealousy, because Serena is succesful and favoured and has so many true fans all over the world. Who cares about Safina, jankovic...etc.? I care about Serena, I want to see Serena on the court, and Venus, they are the reason I took a fancy to women´s tennis and no one else. I don´t care for women´s tenis when they both do not participate. When Serena will be suspended I won´t watch tennis at all. Serena made a mistake and apologized, everyone who is normal will accept it and move on. The rest will keep repeating their envious comments over and over again, but basically they´re just showing their own lostness. Personally I feel sorry for everyone such lost. Life is too short, it´s time to move on. Thanks Serena for being you, you´re awesome. Keep your head up, I´m so proud of you and pray for you. Stay strong kid, we love you and stay on your side no mater what. Your book is great I´d recommend it to eveyone to read. Much love. I.
to Jeremy Elwood. hm, I truly hope Serena´s career is not over, and if yes, then the women´s tennis will lose tons of tennis fans, believe me. We want to see Serena and Venus on the court. :)
SERENA WILLIAMS' WEBSITE ADMINISTRATOR: PLEASE MONITOR THIS WEBSITE AND REMOVE CONTENTS OF RACIST REMARKS AGAINST THIS EXCELLENT ATHLETE TENNIS PLAYER. THIS IS A FAN SITE NOT A CESSPOOL FOR HATERS AND RACIST COMMENTS. THANK YOU.
To Fred Kelley: Nice language. Where did you get that potty mouth? Learning from Serena how to talk to someone when you disagree with them? Ah, let's not forget, a professional like Serena has been the beneficiary of bad calls just as many times as she's been the victim, you have to be able to give and take. Like Michael Jackson, Serena is a legend in her own mind. And here we are wasting our time on her forum! Once and for all: John McEnroe, Jeff Tarango, Jimmy Connors, Andre Agassi, Ilie Nastase were not good examples for Serena to follow. She should be better them, because she is. This conduct was very unbecoming, un-Christian, and unfortunately, now we put her in the company of the aforementioned people. What a shame Serena. We thought better of you. Hope it doesn't happen again. Maybe you should get a counselor to help you with anger management.
Hey Serena, you are true to the game as all athlets and their sport. Emotions run high when it comes to winning but, we all must remember to stay focus and on our game. When you make to the top and stay there; There are many other people that wish the worst and will do anything to bring you down. There was no foot fault and they need to put in the rules a chance to challange. Love you much girl. following you on twitter. Hit me up sometime.
Iam alwayz delighted to know that you are a truly, real human despite all the Razzmatazz of a celebity life! This is why iam sticking with you for ever! LOL
I was very shocked to say the least but that doesn't make you a bad person just a passionate person who loves tennis. Now just show the world who you really are.xxxxx
Serena, I don't condone your behavior but I applaud your maturity in accepting responsibility for your actions and apologizing. I hate that alleged fans on this site and the media have taken this one incident and gone bananas with it. I won't mention the numerous other tennis players and sports stars who have acted out of control on numerous occasions yet have never been exploited to this level. The fire and passion that you play with is usually channeled to help you win. This time it spun out of control. I hope and trust that you have learned from this and can move on. I look forward to both you and Venus continuing your dominance and leadership both on and off the court.
Though iam convinced that Serena's tantrum on that day was un professional, she said that she has learnt a lesson from it and has even apologized! She has never done that before and who says first offenders do not deserve some sympathy! I disagree with M.Jackson (I hate to write the full text of your M.bcoz Micheal Jackson is still my favorite singer) that Serena has been a beneficiary of bad calls as well as being a victim! I think that is cheap blackmail! As an ardent Fan of Serena. pls take up my challenge and reel off the statistics to convince our fellow readers!While i criticized Serena for her conduct in the match against Kim Clijsters, honestly i smelt a rat about the painful incident! LOL
Dear Serena You didn't let me down. I appreciate you and understand how much pressure you were under. For some reason the line coach was just not getting what was normally done in such circumstances. Even though I live in Belgium and admire Kim a whole lot, I also love to see you play and I appreciate what you have done and continue to do for the game of tennis. I registered so that I could be sure to give you my support. ROSE
Hello Serena, me again ... greeting from Republic of Kosovo. Just to share this will all of you -"There is only one present day, which is today,- embrace it,- yesterday is a memory and tomorrow is a dream,- so enjoy this day" :)" 'case you can not live in the present and look forward to the future if you're stuck in the past, right???" SOO GO ONNNNNNNN
Serena don't let them bother you ,you will be yesterdays news soon,we all know the runnings you are our CHAMPION,and nothing will ever change that keep your head in the sky, and don't worry about a thing because everything is going to be more than alright you hear me, big up v xx
Love you girl! Today is a new day with a positive outlook. Take God with you, stay strong and thank you for writing your book. It has truly motivated me!!!!! I just want to continue to give you positive support as you move forward.
The haters are jealous you are only human when you guys do what John McEnroe did for years there is now a national outcry we as a people are always judged so harshly. I dont know how you do it but I pray that God continues to give you strength. There is so much I could say but I wont I deal with their denials all day long, until anyone has worked in your shoes no-one has any right to judge you. You guys destabilised the status quo for so long they are now having a field day. you go girl
This comment is worth repeating! Comment by : Fritz Hohenheim Wednesday, September 16, 2009 Unfortunately this is how people are, you can do 1000 good things and the one bad thing you do is the one they crucify you for, I've been there, done that. People are gloating that's the nature of the beast. I guess what I'm trying to say is, one must just close the eyes and ears from the nay sayers and move on. You can't please everybody like Abe Lincoln put it so eloquently. Just please: Remain honest and don't play any PR tricks, go to rehab or join the "Celebrities against Profanities" charity or any such thing. Being oneself is the best defense. People bite every crumb you throw down at them. Don't give them any fodder and they will eventually move on :) Well, good luck with it, it's hard the first time.
THERE IS A STORY IN A NEWS WEB SITE CALL THE NATION BY DAVE ZIRIN A MUST READ. A DOUBLE STANDARD FOR SERENA WILLIAMS. I TRIED TO COPY IT AND SEND IT OUT, BUT IT DID NOT WORK FOR ME. PLEASE TRY TO SEND IT OUT IN A CHAIN. THANK YOU
Love you Serena! Stay positive! Remember last time what you did when people called you names and said you would be OVER, you ROSE ABOVE it and started winning grand slams again! If you get the opportunity to defend your AO title, I know that fire inside of you will burn bigger than ever! Also, I'm finally getting a Serena Signature Selection on HSN. When are you going back on HSN? You should know that people are moving on from the incident and in a few weeks it will be talked about but it will be old news. Keep bringing up your CHARITY work in interviews. People always want to talk about the bad but let them know you care for your community and although you aren't human it is MORE IMPORTANT to talk about your philanthropy.
Thank you Jesse for this comment. Serena, the people are rallying around you. Stay strong, keep your head high. You have accepted responsibility and apologized for your actions. Comment by : jesse sasser Wednesday, September 16, 2009 THERE IS A STORY IN A NEWS WEB SITE CALL THE NATION BY DAVE ZIRIN A MUST READ. A DOUBLE STANDARD FOR SERENA WILLIAMS. I TRIED TO COPY IT AND SEND IT OUT, BUT IT DID NOT WORK FOR ME. PLEASE TRY TO SEND IT OUT IN A CHAIN. THANK YOU
Thank you Pat! One of the best comments I've read. Comment by : pat thomas Wednesday, September 16, 2009 The haters are jealous you are only human when you guys do what John McEnroe did for years there is now a national outcry we as a people are always judged so harshly. I dont know how you do it but I pray that God continues to give you strength. There is so much I could say but I wont I deal with their denials all day long, until anyone has worked in your shoes no-one has any right to judge you. You guys destabilised the status quo for so long they are now having a field day. you go girl
Thank you Lisa! Comment by : Lisa Robinson Wednesday, September 16, 2009 Serena, I don't condone your behavior but I applaud your maturity in accepting responsibility for your actions and apologizing. I hate that alleged fans on this site and the media have taken this one incident and gone bananas with it. I won't mention the numerous other tennis players and sports stars who have acted out of control on numerous occasions yet have never been exploited to this level. The fire and passion that you play with is usually channeled to help you win. This time it spun out of control. I hope and trust that you have learned from this and can move on. I look forward to both you and Venus continuing your dominance and leadership both on and off the court.
You took the words out of my mouth and I believe Serena has a STRONG team around her to take action further in her defense if need be. Don't foret how many times she was wronged and how many outbursts have gone unchecked before hers. Comment by : will witt Wednesday, September 16, 2009 You and Venus were a treat to watch in the Doubles final on the Tennis Channel. Hope next year's goal is the never-before-accomplished Grand Slam in women's doubles. As for your apology, wish you had insisted on a quid pro quo instead of just laying your neck down: a direct apology only in return for a formal USTA investigation into the foot fault calls against you and Venus in the Open. What was it ? Seven against Venus in one match and the two crucial calls against you in the final set with Clijsters - the first negating a service ace that could have led to a 4-2 lead instead of a service break and a 3-3 tie. That would achieve a sense of balance and fair play in the matter. I was just looking at your rap sheet and, lo and behold, it was clean before Saturday's semi. Then compared it to McEnroe's which went on page after page indicating a habitual career offender. When a girl who has played within the rules w/o complaint all her career is provoked by tennis officialdom into such an uncharacteristic angry outburst, the provocation itself must be investigated or fair play and justice disappear like a morning mist or an evening shadow. Verbal violence does not occur in a vacuum. What you told the linesman to do was to stay quiet and thus do what officials know they need to do - not needlessly intrude into a match and adversely effect the outcome. Well, you had good company.The USTA managed to provoke two of its best mannered and rule abiding players to uncharacteristic outbursts. You and Roger - hardly a pair of tennis bad boys/girls.
Iveta, I miss posting with you when the site was a forum, now we have to endure the crazies with no moderator. Love this comment by the way. It made me giggle. Comment by : Iveta Zacharova Wednesday, September 16, 2009 Hmm, obviously Tina Flower is a pitiful person and might need a help of a psychiatrist. Oh well, those haters will always find something against Serena even if Serena wouldn´t make any mistake in her life ever. They are sick of jealousy, because Serena is succesful and favoured and has so many true fans all over the world. Who cares about Safina, jankovic...etc.? I care about Serena, I want to see Serena on the court, and Venus, they are the reason I took a fancy to women´s tennis and no one else. I don´t care for women´s tenis when they both do not participate. When Serena will be suspended I won´t watch tennis at all. Serena made a mistake and apologized, everyone who is normal will accept it and move on. The rest will keep repeating their envious comments over and over again, but basically they´re just showing their own lostness. Personally I feel sorry for everyone such lost. Life is too short, it´s time to move on. Thanks Serena for being you, you´re awesome. Keep your head up, I´m so proud of you and pray for you. Stay strong kid, we love you and stay on your side no mater what. Your book is great I´d recommend it to eveyone to read. Much love. I.
Hi Iveta and Elisse. Miss you guys a lot. :( Here is Nicklopez, remember? :D
No need Serena, you're human and you've apologized for that. You're human, we love you and support you in everything you do. Let's move on, the media will continue to create their stories using that event for many years to come for their benefit.
hi elisse! hi nicklopez!! I miss u too!! btw. are u on twitter?? ;)
Hi, Nick!!! Join us on Twitter!!!
LOVE LOVE LOVE YOU SERENA!
Hi Serena. I look forward to reading your book. BTW, don't ever let your emotions keep you from the trophy and accolades you rightly deserve again. Although Clijsters is outstanding, you are exceptional. You are gifted and blessed, so always rely on the strength of your internalities rather than the influence of externalities to guide your behavior. BTW, as I was watching the match between you and Clijsters it was puzzling how the judges overlooked many 'out' balls on Clijsters returns. Perhaps you did not notice, but viewers did! Cynthia
l m sorry for what you have been going through but l know that if that had come from a white player nothing would have been said -its not alright for a black player to lose cool?anyway you have apologised and punished now its time to look forward to the end of year championships show your haters that you are the best tennis player in the world-11 single grand slams and 10 doubles that really proves it-l will be in Australia next Jan and l know you are going to defend your title-work hard like you always do -l love you so much
Ms. Williams, I am reading your book, On the Line, and I suggest that all people should read it to understand you better. Bonnie D. Logan
LOVE LOVE LOVE YOU SERENA!
REMAIN DETERMINED I KNOW YOU WILL CONQUER ALL AND THERE IS NOTHING IMPOSSIBLE
Serena, I am an intense competitor on the court like you, and would behave the same way if I got foot faulted to give match point. The difference is, you are in a public arena where your every move is scrutinized. Owning up to the mistake with sincerity immediately after it happens is the best thing to do. I'm sure you'll come back stronger and better, as always. Best wishes, @jekennedy
I really am amazed at how some of the comments try to turn this into a black issue. Serena threatened harm on this poor woman just trying to do her job. (she was an Asian woman by the way...should all Asians be crying foul). In this country, that is a crime which could be considered assault, or uttering a threat. This went far, far beyond what I've ever seen before. Saying that was a f-ing bad call is profane but indirect. Saying you're f-ing stupid is profane and direct but is a comment about the act of makiing a bad call. Saying that you're going to f-ing shove a ball down someone's throat is a profane, direct threat and is an order of magnitude more disgraceful than the first two. You cannot compare anything John MacEnroe did to this. Nobody ever felt threatened by John - the only concern that he was going to stroke-out from the stress he put on himself. So we all get the fact that to reach this level of sport, you pretty well screen out all those with passive behavior characteristics so eventually, when the stakes are high enough, you get an explosion like this. But the part I don't get....much later, when the adrenaline has subsided...where is the acceptance and realization of what she's done.... "oh my God, I really lost it there and I am soooo sorry for my behavior. I sent the linesperson a credit for a spa so she can relax and forget this day. there is no excuse for what I did and....." Instead we get a day of "apologize to whom?" and somehow suggesting that this whole shows good character because that means she has passion for the sport and all you young girls take notice. I took my young girl aside and used the incident to explain how not to treat a human being and how not to try to justify such behavior.
serena I have been a fan forever and have watch u play with pride. So u had a bad day, life does go on, u made ur apologies with all ur heart. there r worse things going on in this world hopefully u learn from ur outburst and move on.....much love and keep doing what u do.....
I really am amazed at how some of the comments try to turn this into a black issue. Serena threatened harm on this poor woman just trying to do her job. (she was an Asian woman by the way...should all Asians be crying foul). In this country, that is a crime which could be considered assault, or uttering a threat. This went far, far beyond what I've ever seen before. Saying that was a f-ing bad call is profane but indirect. Saying you're f-ing stupid is profane and direct but is a comment about the act of makiing a bad call. Saying that you're going to f-ing shove a ball down someone's throat is a profane, direct threat and is an order of magnitude more disgraceful than the first two. You cannot compare anything John MacEnroe did to this. Nobody ever felt threatened by John - the only concern that he was going to stroke-out from the stress he put on himself. So we all get the fact that to reach this level of sport, you pretty well screen out all those with passive behavior characteristics so eventually, when the stakes are high enough, you get an explosion like this. But the part I don't get....much later, when the adrenaline has subsided...where is the acceptance and realization of what she's done.... "oh my God, I really lost it there and I am soooo sorry for my behavior. I sent the linesperson a credit for a spa so she can relax and forget this day. there is no excuse for what I did and....." Instead we get a day of "apologize to whom?" and somehow suggesting that this whole shows good character because that means she has passion for the sport and all you young girls take notice. I took my young girl aside and used the incident to explain how not to treat a human being and how not to try to justify such behavior.
To all the haters your day of judgement will come. It's not so much that this young woman made a mistake that's got your drawers in a bunch. It's the fact she's black and kickin @$$ on the court. That you all want her to leave the sport. So freakin what she lost her temper and let that hefer have it. She's human and in the heat of the moment vented a little frustration. Thats not a good enough reason to make her pay further. She's paying enough. I personally think you hypocrites don't know the word of God which says he who is WITHOUT SIN let him cast the first stone. So in conclusion I say this Serena your true fans love you and We FORGIVE YOU AS GOD WILL AS WELL . Keep it 110! And we Love you!
WTA,ITF,USTA are the only ones that keep saying negavity against Serena! They should be ashamed of themselves. Serena and Venus are the best players that they ever had and they still do not appreciate them. Unbelievable!!! Shame on them!! My daughter watched Serena also and she has not problem to make a distinction between bad and good. In life happens a lot of bad things, it would be really great if such mistake as made Serena was the worst of all. Normal people understand Serena and move on. Haters, Mary Carillo, McEnroe, not. BIG SHAME on them!!!!
Serena, you did not let me down.We do not live in a perfect world so we all make mistakes and for us african americans(black people) we play any sport with such high inensity because we are fierce contenders.It has been instilled in us from our forefathers.What I am extremely proud of is that you faced the music handled the situation very gracious and lady like and mved on.Good for you. NEXT!!!!
As a older mature and professional female I would like to say to Serena you did not sign on to be any ones role model and you don't have to be. You only have to be the best person that you can. As human beings we are all emotional and subject to make mistakes. I can understand an outburst when a person has done their best and still did not accomplish their goal. I was very sorry for your lost but I also know you are still the better player. I am looking forward to your next match and you once again showing the nay sayers why you are the best. Hold you head high and just keep smiling that beautiful smile and remain confident. The ball is definetely in your court.
Serena you are doing so well on all of your interviews! Keep up the good work girl! You're the best.
Best comment on the site! Comment by : maxine victor Wednesday, September 16, 2009 As a older mature and professional female I would like to say to Serena you did not sign on to be any ones role model and you don't have to be. You only have to be the best person that you can. As human beings we are all emotional and subject to make mistakes. I can understand an outburst when a person has done their best and still did not accomplish their goal. I was very sorry for your lost but I also know you are still the better player. I am looking forward to your next match and you once again showing the nay sayers why you are the best. Hold you head high and just keep smiling that beautiful smile and remain confident. The ball is definetely in your court.
And this is pretty much what it boils down to! Thanks for this. Comment by : nereida gonzalez Wednesday, September 16, 2009 serena I have been a fan forever and have watch u play with pride. So u had a bad day, life does go on, u made ur apologies with all ur heart. there r worse things going on in this world hopefully u learn from ur outburst and move on.....much love and keep doing what u do.....
Iveta I love your last comment. God has a plan for Serena. These kind of things only happen to those who are meant to be great. She didn't commit a crime here but in a way was given a larger platform to do her philanthropy which she loves so much!
Serena, you're a strong, powerful, INTERNATIONAL figure. You've been through so much and came out better and stronger for it and you will do so again. I felt your pain. I saw the years of biting your tongue and holding back come surging like a tsunami on Sat. night. We know that's not you. You know that's not you. However, never, ever let the situation get the better of you again. You're so much bigger than the result of ANY match. We're watching you and praying for you. You will always be a champion in our hearts!
Unfortunately, I don't think this is out of your character. I think people have been waiting to see the true side of you come out. You are a disgrace to the tennis world. That poor line person was terrified with your actions, personally threatening to harm her, unbelieveable that you weren't arrested, which you should have been. I think you have lost alot of fans over this behavior. If this had been someone threatening you with the same words, you would have pressed charges...so shame on you. Bottom line, is you have no manners, no class, nothing....you acted like a thug, and I doubt this was a "one time incident".....
Iveta I love your last comment. God has a plan for Serena. These kind of things only happen to those who are meant to be great. She didn't commit a crime here but in a way was given a larger platform to do her philanthropy which she loves so much!
WTA,ITF,USTA are the only ones that keep saying negavity against Serena! They should be ashamed of themselves. Serena and Venus are the best players that they ever had and they still do not appreciate them. Unbelievable!!! Shame on them!! My daughter watched Serena also and she has not problem to make a distinction between bad and good. In life happens a lot of bad things, it would be really great if such mistake as made Serena was the worst of all. Normal people understand Serena and move on. Haters, Mary Carillo, McEnroe, not. BIG SHAME on them!!!!
To Meredith, can't compare the Male tennis players outbursts, as that is just what they were, outbursts, they did not personally threaten a line person with bodily harm, big difference little girl. The men in this game may have mouthed off, screamed out, alot for showmanship, but none ever physically threatened to harm someone on the court, or they would have been thrown out of the game, which Serena should have been too.
I am not a big fan of tennis but u and ur sister are by far the world's best! Everyone looses there cool sometimes and what people, especially the public need to understand is u are HUMANE! We all have snapped on a few people every once in a while if not more. I commend you for apologizing and my hat goes off to you for not repeating to reporters what exactly u said. If they didn't hear it the first time too damn bad. I absolutely love the way you kept your composure with all the reporters jamming mics in your face. Society loves drama and unfortunatly you gave them what they really wanted. But all kidding aside, I admire your courage and your sence of worth for admitting you were wrong and the strong emphasis to move on. If you look at any professional sport there are always cases where star athetes loose there temper with an unfair call or a bias ref. You had the unfortunate experience to be handed a ref who knew nothing of the game and made a devastating bad call. What noone seems to be getting is this is your life that she misjudged. Why there are no replays I'll never know but she made a bad call that cost u the match and for that I feel so sorry for you. The judge needs to be reviewed and I think she owes you an apology also for such a crappy call. Not only did she pass bad judgement but in the broadcast she ACTUALLY RAN to the higher officals! Tempers always flare and if she had any common sense she would have retreated to the corner and held off till after the match was over. Did she really feel that threatened with millions of staff around? Instead SHE caused the explosion and I sincerely hope that you can move past this. I also commend you sister for standing by your side...right or wrong it's always awsome to have family in your corner. So good luck Serina...keep your head up! This is a cut and dry case of a superstar having an off day...you are an inspiration to women everywhere and If people can't get through there thick heads what a wonderful athlete you are and pass judgement over one stupid mishap then they don't need to be there for you anyway. Hopefully, Kanye will do something just as dumb as he did days earlier and keep u out of the spotlight.Hey, could be worse...atleast the president of the United States didn't call u a jackass! lol Best Wishes D
To Dave Eckerson, once again, Serena did not just have an "outburst", she verbally made a physical threat to another human being, big difference....if she had just made an "outburst", the media would not be all over this. But listen to her words, she wanted to harm this poor girl, and look at her, I would have been afraid, geezzzz...she is as big as any man.
As long as we're doing what-ifs, what if the linesperson was a big muscular white guy, and made a call, and serena challenged it and then HE jumped up, moved towards her menacingly, picked up a spare racket and said "are you f-ing challenging me?!! I'm gonna take this racket and shove it down your f-ing throat!" He'd be tackled and taken away in handcuffs, charged with assault, uttering a death threat and probably beaten overnight in jail much to the satisfaction of all serena's hard core fans. Double standard? She was given a point penalty as the rules stipulate and a minor fine. She didn't take the immediate opportunity to apologize to the linesperson first, her opponent second, and finally the tournament officials and the fans. Yes, the valid call came at a bad time, as did her tirade. I'm not sure who her media advisor is but he or she should be apologizing too.
Stuff happens. Just saw you on Regis and Kelly. You, young lady, are handling the "stuff" with the greatest of grace! Just a wee blip in the road of life. Best to ya! (And ignore comments like Tim Thomas, what a tool)
And sadly, a double standard does still exist.
your antics are a disgrace to athletes all over america, how do i explain to my nine year old that what you did is ok. children look up to you and you let them down. shame on you sarena,,, shame on you....
Serena,, Try real hard to remain positive for your fans to ramain with U. I hope your apology is deep down you, as bthe last event is part of yuor public life as a human creature. Move on please. kay.
as it turns out, it was a blessing that the foul occurred at match point becuase it relieved the tournament officials from a very difficult situation. would the linesperson have gone back to her chair, scared senseless from making a call that didn't favor Serena? would they have to bring in a new linesperson (all volunteers, please raise your hand...anyone?....anyone?) okay, lets re-instate the 15-30 score, bring in a new set of linesmen with protective cages, and continue
For all of you who don't realize it, Serena Williams is human. She acted purely on her emotions, in the moment. We all have done the same at some point. I feel her apology was sincere. I think she reflected on her reaction and behavior. This helped her to realize her mistake. But how many times does she have to apologize? How many fines does she have to pay? Why should there be any thought of banning her from the sport or any tournament? Was McEnroe ever banned for his rude, insulting and childish behavior or outbursts? She should not continue to be punished for doing the same thing other tennis pros have done repeatedly in the past. But I guess a black woman who has dominated and is still dominating the predominately white sport of tennis has different rules to follow. Maybe Serena and Venus are getting to close to breaking every tennis record there is. Serena keep you head up. You have apologized and been fined for your mistake. The powers that be can not keep you down because you are destined for sucess and greatness. Practice harder. Play harder. Bring your A game. And silience those who doubt your talent, ablity, your spirit and most importantly your heart. Stay strong. I will be cheering you on!!!
THERE IS NOTHING TO FORGIVE SERENA. WE LOVE YOU AND YOU DIDN'T LET ANYONE DOWN.
Hey Serena, I know that you are competitor and that those things happen, people shouldn't let this one incident tarnish you great career. John McEnroe did it a lot more than you did and no one ever said anything about!!! So I say let's move on and keep on being the the winner that you are!!!!!!
Paul Smart, shame on you for coming on here and using those cruel words. What is wrong with you?!
It would appear gayla kaiser, (if that is your name) has a chip on his shoulders, gayla you are really really sad, did your mummy not breast feed you???? Your heaRt is full of hate, see the bigger picture we all make mistakes, Serena made hers and has apologised what more do you want her to do. If you are such a saint why do you have so much to say that is nagitive show some heart and learn to forgive, if God can forgive us why cann't you. I dread to think of the horrible things you have done in your life noone is perfect EXCEPT OF COURSE YOU.............
Serena - You made your apology just ignore everyone. You got mad and cursed so what. Everyone loses their cool don't listen to the folks who are riding you about this, like your sister said let's move on. I am so sick of the media aggravating incidents and making them bigger than they are. Yes, you have a fan base and yes little girls of all races look up to you but it really is no big deal. The public will get over it. Enjoy your win.
I'm afraid the damage is done; your thoughtless words and actions on the court in front of the world not only embarrass you and your work, but your fellow Americans who have looked up to you as a role-model for our children. I can understand that it is a large burden to bear, but it is the price of success. I would hope that you would postpone your book release/tour and put actions behind your words to try to heal what you have broken. Anything less is arrogance.
Serena, I hope you continue to focus on what’s important in your life and that you are able to quiet the media noise by elevating your game to an even higher level. You and your sister have made history and so many positive contributions to women’s tennis. I am amazed by the number of people that feel obligated to leave negative comments on your site. One girl, Julie Schaffer said, “Take tennis out of your equation and what do you have left?” Is that possible? These are the same people that are sitting at home eating a bag of chips while you play your heart out and they have the audacity to pass judgment on you. Maybe the people making negative comments should shift their energy away from commentating on your life and focus it on discovering what they are passionate about and called to do on this earth. None of them will ever know what it feels like to be in your shoes, but that’s their problem. There are many of us that are thankful for your accomplishments and recognize you as the Fabulous woman God created. Stay positive, stay strong and continue to share your incredible gifts and talents with the world. Blessings.
Serena, I hope you continue to focus on what’s important in your life and that you are able to quiet the media noise by elevating your game to an even higher level. You and your sister have made history and so many positive contributions to women’s tennis. I am amazed by the number of people that feel obligated to leave negative comments on your site. One girl, Julie Schaffer said, “Take tennis out of your equation and what do you have left?” Is that possible? These are the same people that are sitting at home eating a bag of chips while you play your heart out and they have the audacity to pass judgment on you. Maybe the people making negative comments should shift their energy away from commentating on your life and focus it on discovering what they are passionate about and called to do on this earth. None of them will ever know what it feels like to be in your shoes, but that’s their problem. There are many of us that are thankful for your accomplishments and recognize you as the Fabulous woman God created. Stay positive, stay strong and continue to share your incredible gifts and talents with the world. Blessings.
Comment by : Marco Schorm , Germany Wednesday , September 16, 2009 Serena I just wanted to tell right from Germany I`ll stay allways in my mind with you in your corner!!!!!!! Besides I`m watching you playing tennis since 1999 and I´ll keep doing for the next ten years!!!!! Stay as you are!! I`m sending you all my adoration and brotherly love may God bless you!
Dearest Serena You are a total inspiration to me I am 65 years old and know the world is a better place for having you and you Super Sister in it I work with many disadvntaged children here on Galveston Island and you are a Goddess to them and a constant inspiration to work hard and make their lives better I am proud of you always and am doubly so after the US Open and your graceful handling of it Life hands us many challenges and it is our way of dealing with them that tells the tale of our lives YOU ARE A LIGHT GODDESS My husband and I have a charity that supports African children www.africanchildrenshaven.org We are very grateful to be doing this work Mucho leoparda thanks for being in our lives Linda Ercole-Musso
Serena - its so unfair that they won't just let you enjoy your fame and fortune without scrutinizing your behavior. Talk about a double standard....this never happens to any other celebrity. So unfair!
Serena, If points can be challenged with the " Chase review ", then I believe foot falls should also be challengeable because in your case, there was no footfall. This is why I understand your snapping at the event. It is easy to criticize, but the Federation did not re-consider the footfall in all fairness and videos were available. One idea......You should pull forces together with other players to demand that footfall calls be challengeable. Remember McEnroe and the Maccam????? That helped a lot of players and this was a true contribution to the sport. So please, get your people together and help others this way. Thank you,
Serena, If points can be challenged with the " Chase review ", then I believe foot falls should also be challengeable because in your case, there was no footfall. This is why I understand your snapping at the event. It is easy to criticize, but the Federation did not re-consider the footfall in all fairness and videos were available. One idea......You should pull forces together with other players to demand that footfall calls be challengeable. Remember McEnroe and the Maccam????? That helped a lot of players and this was a true contribution to the sport. So please, get your people together and help others this way. Thank you,
Keep up the good work! Congrats on the new school you're building!!!!!
First and foremost you are human....which one of us can say that we have never done things that we wish we had done differently... You are a great player..keep it up!!!!!ks
Hey there Sis - We have been watching you, and proud of your successes and YOU and VENUS as people; your love of the game, each other and the values you have espoused. We received e-mails of you in Spain last spring. You looked so beautiful. Sorry you had this meltdown during the US Open, so publicly or at all! Do what you said and learn from it. We learn more in our sad times than happy ones. You have had so much success, that this presents that opportunity. Wishing you the best in all things!!
Serena, I cannot wiat for this issue to go away. There are so many more improtant things for people to talk about, but it just goes to show how people like to focus on the negative. Don't stop being who you are. It's why you are where you are today. Every single person who wants to decide whether you are sincere or not, or who can't possibly understand how you can behave this way should just take a look in the mirror. You are a great tennis player and I believe a good person. No doubt you will beat Kim Clisters again also. P.S. Love the book.
hi Serena, first i would like to thank u for apologizing even though i didn't think u owed one well, maybe to the young ppl b/c we need to set examples for them. as for the negativity, ppl tend to forget that if it was not for Venus and Serena American tennis would be lost!!! for years YOU HAVE GIVEN US ALL A REASON TO WATCH TENNIS....YOU HAVE EVEN OPENED THE GAME TO NON-TENNIS FANS BECAUSE OF YOUR SUCCESS!!!! AND I THANK BOTH OF YOU FOR THAT....U HAVE DONE MORE POSITIVE THAN NEGATIVE AND THAT OUT WAYS THE BAD! I WATCHED SPORTS CENTER ABOUT WHAT FURTHER ACTIONS SHOULD BE TAKEN AND MY ANSWER IS NONE! ANY ONE ELSE WOULD PAY THEIR FINE AND MOVE ON, WHY SHOULD THE EXAMPLE BE SET AT YOUR EXPENSE. IF WE ALL LOOK BACK AT YOUR HISTORY IN REGARDS TO YOUR BEHAVIOR I FOR ONE CAN ONLY FIND THIS ONE BAD INCIDENT!! I DON'T THINK THAT ITS RIGHT THAT PPL TURN ON OTHER PPL BECAUSE OF ONE THING, FOR ME THE GOOD OUT DOSE THE BAD, YOU AND VENUS ARE THE REASON AMERICAN TENNIS FOR WOMEN IS STILL ALIVE. IF WE TAKE YOU OR VENUS AWAY FROM THE SPORT GOING BACK AT LEAST TEN YEARS, THERE WOULD BE "NO" AMERICAN SUCCESS STORIES!!! I LOVE U GIRL! KEEP YOUR HEAD UP! F**K THE NEGATIVITY! AS FOR THE COMPARISON TO KANYE WEST, NOT EVEN CLOSE!! HE IS AN ASS HOLE AND IS ALWAYS PULLING STUNTS. LOL
In all this, Serena, please remember that Nothing shall separate you from the Love of Jehovah. He is the ultimate Judge. I will continue to pray for you and your family. D.Jacobs
Hi Serena, I hope that your book signing is going well today. I am going to purchase your book. Remember, if you choose wether or not you will serve Jehovah or not, you know this: the world is passing away (mankind alienated from God), and so is its desire, but he that does the will of Jehovah remains forever. I'm sure you and everybody can see how fast this world turned on you. Kim in not born in America... Anyway, Serena, remember our beloved Michael. But, more important stay focused on the "real life" to come in the new system of things and you will be sure to succeed in all your endeavors, and never ever let this world "mold" you into their way of thinking. As you and Venus have been persevering up until now, continue to endure. Catastophic events are going to intensify.
SERENA: I am perplexed by your statement..."I understand that I MAY HAVE let some of you all down"... If 100% of your fans are honest with themselves deep down... 100% of us were "let down!" Until you very plainly state - uncategorically - that the call the linesperson made was her doing her job...that the call may have been correct or in error...that you had been called on foot falls twice prior in the 2009 US Open...that you could have asked for an offical review...that earlier in the match you smashed your racquet which was a menacing act...that you menacingly threatened to 'shove the tennis ball down the throat of the lineswoman' while holding your racquet in an attack-type mode... and that you blew it in the subsequent interview at the tennis facility by refusing to TAKE RESPONSIBILITY for giving tennis a TEXAS-SIZE black-eye and majorly damaging your legacy. You tried to justify it all by invoking your passion for your "job" and in my view disrespecting your "thinking" fans by saying you 'are moving on.' On the television appearances you acted like a polished politican SPINNING the mistake in clever ways. Unless and until you OWN WHAT HAPPENED 100% I predict it all will fester like a slow-growing parasite and it will in insidious ways INFECT/AFFECT your career. Forget about us adult fans...WHAT KIND OF ROLE MODEL ARE YOU FOR YOUR YOUNG FANS? Everyone knows that everyone makes mistakes! What truly exemplifies a CHAMPION in life is how that person handles the mistake's aftermath. For your playing I give you an "A" For your behaviour in the semi-final I give you an "F" For your behaviour subsequently I give you a "D" WILL YOU TAKE UP THE CHALLENGE TO TRULY BECOME EXTRAORDINARY or be just deceptively so? P.S. Lose the "bling" ...which distracts both you (first one then both earrings don't last the match) and viewers like me.
Serena, I have followed your career since 1999 and I was truly shocked and disappointed by the aggressive nature of your outburst. I cannot imagine however what you and your sister have had to endure all these years. I've been to several US Open matches and watched firsthand how fans rooted for your foreign opponents even though you're American born and raised. It still saddens me. I hate that it has come to this but I know you'll move forward. I wish you knew how many of us were cheering for you. Maybe it all just took a toll on you. Please don't forget the blessings. You're an exceptional athlete! Your level of sportsmanship however reflects on you as a person and not just a player. Never let the opinion of someone else become your opinion of yourself. Or as Lauren Hill would say "Don't be a hard rock when you really are a gem".
Serena, you have always been entertaining, and just happened to misstep, as so many others have. yOu apologized and just have to move on. Ensure you keep the incident where it belongs---behind you. What I would like to have you do is train hard, play meor matches, and you would certainly be where you rightfully belong; and that is "No. 1" They always make all the fuss about Sharapove, Safin and the other Russians. They just begun to fuss about one American===Oudin. The fact is that she is "White". It is as simple as that Forget the Mary Carellos.
To Person calling themselves Kanye Northwest. No my language is not good, however when you are dealing with such a corrupt situation then rules go out the window. If you want to act like a nigga then we can act like niggas. Its all good and for you to expect people to maintain themselves when you are pissing on there head is riduculus. See the time to be civil was before any of this happen. See black people are tired of the tricks that white people do to hold us back. its 2009 and we still dealing with stuff that black people had to deal with in the 1950's. White people dont say offensive thing all the time but they do them. Calling a fake call on Serena was EXACTLY that. A Fake call and it was an attempt to take her down not only in that game but in her over all average. But its just going to back fire because when Serena plays that white bitch again she is going to wipe the floor with her and whoop her ass so bad she will leave the stadium looking like she got hit by a bus.
LOVE LOVE LOVE SERENA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
So not only did you swear at that asian woman (the judge), but you actually went to the MTV's awards and spoke about it like it was something so heroic. At that point you didn't even look sorry but were rather PROUD about what you did. Then last night you had the nerve to send your spokesperson on TV and make him talk about white girls too?! Are you for real? All he could say in your "defense" was that if you were "a 17 year old all white American" people wouldn't have reacted this way. Well - you are not. You are black and obviously racist. In my opinion you are also getting old and kind of FAT to play tennis. The picture you have on your website must have been taken years ago. We all know what happened that day - you can't play so you were loosing to a white girl and you got pissed off. People like you should be ashamed of themselves. Moreover you are arrogant and I am happy that you got kicked off the tennis court. You con't deserve to play.
P.s.: I know that my comment won't get posted - because it's not probably not even Williams reading and writing on this website. She probably pays some poor young girl to do it for her. I just feel better after saying what I had to say.
To hell with you Alexa Smith! How dare you insult someone who has achieved so much under what I would describe as "poor working conditions". You have not walked in her shoes so don't pretend to know what she is thinking. To call Serena racists is ridiculous. Have you ever paid attention to her close family and friends (several of whom are white) who sit in her box to offer support? Of course not. Serena's actions were immature and unprofessional but you've taken this to another level.
Alexa Smith: You're an idiot! She didn't get kicked off the court! Get your facts straight! I doubt you even are a true tennis fan! Get off this site and spread your hatred to people who care. Love, an American white girl....
Serena, you totally lost it with your conduct! You should be further fined and suspended for it!! That being said, I commend you for your sincere apology! The mystery of this whole foot-fault thing on me, is the disproportionate number of times you and Venus have been called for foot-faults, compared to ALL OTHER members of the pro tour, men and women! Is this some form of obtus dicrimination?? I believe it is! The USTA, WTA, Tennis Channel, tennis analysts, etc.------should compile the relevant statistics of foot-fault calls given to you and Venus------compared to the entire rest of the pro tour members!! They would find that the Williams sisters, indeed, have been inordinately called for foot-faults way more often than anyone else!! Why?? The WTA, USTA need to confront this matter-----with all relevant statistics on foot-fault calls----- going back 10 years-----to determine if subjective discrimination was perpetrated on you! This does not condone your conduct----but, it was a contributing factor in your unfortunate, poor reaction to that patricular call! You and Venus have been and still are great champions and great role models to all tennis fans------and I wish you continued success!
I love u no matter what, girl u r human!!! u get mad and has bad times like us, I understand ur behavior, and as a fan , as ur fan I don't have to accept ur apologize cause , it's not bnecesary, I love u no matter what.
Definition of irony: Serena hawking a book called "On The Line" during a controversy regarding how she acted over a dispute if she was "on the line"! woohoo I will be here all week! First apology: I don't remember what I said! (first lie) I didn't threaten her (second lie) Oops 80% are against me guess I will apologize about how I acted over call being "on the line" so I can sale "On The Line" ! If you don't believe it look at her post! Buy On The Line! and send my your checks, praize jeezuz!xxxxxxxxxx Does anyone see this as transparently as I do? We are so used to athletes lying to the public we put up with it. I didn't do steroids, I didn't cheat on my wife, I didn't threaten that official. Let's hold our heroes accountable. Character still matters, just like a real apology does, We don't have either with Serena.
I live in Peru, so is very difficult to get On the Line in South America, thanksfully my cousin was in Atlanta 2 weeks ago and he bought me ur book. I was very happy to have it, I read it in 2 days, it was amazing! Felt that u were telling me all that was written. 1 conclusion; u r a great champion and an incredible stong person. love u
Hi Serena: You're only human like the rest of us. I can't imagine being under the amount of scrutiny, pressure and stress that you experienced at the U.S. Open. It's understandable that you lost you're cool as a lot of us would have if we were confronted with the same circumstances. I know it wasn't the right thing to do but as I said at the beginning, you are only human and you have paid the price. Congratulations on doing so well in the singles and for winning the doubles title. I wish you success in future tournaments and in your other endeavours. Saw you on Regis and Kelly today and you looked amazing! Linda Lowe-Chan London, Ontario Canada
I'M STILL A FAN, DESPITE WHAT THE MEDIA IS SAYING.KEEP YOUR HEAD UP BABY GIRL AND GOD WILL DO THE REST.
SERENA, NOT A GOOD LOOK ALL AROUND !!!!
Serena, You have done what anyone else would have done "in the moment". The line judge was clearly taking advantage of you and was miss calling the game to her advantage. I just wonder how much monies went into her account just days before the quarter finals. But Serena you must always stay on top of your game by knowing that this has happened and will continue to happen when there are African Americans with the chance to win. Sometimes losing is "winning" as well and you must know that winning can be losing too. You have apologize enough and I would not find myself anymore having to have to apologize. The line judge needs to be called out for her wrong doings which is called cheating to her advantage. You are indeed a winner and each time you step on the court you are a winner. Always look to win the game in a positive way and never look back. I am a true fan of yours and do understand the moment you were in. God Bless and continue the great hard work.
Hi Serena, I watched the interview on GMA where you were discussing what happened recently on the court. I heard your comments and I watched your expression and body language during the questioning. It is true that we all make mistakes and we must learn from them, but what I saw was something much deeper that deals with your own internal emotions that relate to your family, specifically the death of your sister. It appeared that that locked-up life challenge has made your grief and pain become anger. That kind of pain that is never fully dealt with will be played out in your life over and over again until you come to terms with it. You are human and are vulnerable to a lifetime of experiences that impact you on so many levels. You must own that. Please find a way to unlock that pain for yourself that you package so perfectly as drive and focus that will help you move on without the fear and anger. When you finally put that pain in the right perspective, then your life and you will change. Then you can begin to manifest the totally professional and beautiful woman that we all know that you are.
people are saying that serena blew the role model role but i disagree completely-- children know they can't curse out a teacher for getting a bad grade-- what serena teaches is that you can confront the teacher in the first place--- children are not stupid..they realize that serena was under huge pressure-- if anything they got a lesson in how to confront those pressures because serena came right out and said that she responded in a bad way-- but that is the key point-- she is not saying that she should not have responded-- she correctly states that the manner was wrong--a young black woman standing up in front of millions of people and asserting herself is the baseline plus we get in this case now as far as the threat goes, it was not a true threat, she said she was going to shove a tennis ball down the lineman's throat of
people are saying that serena blew the role model role but i disagree completely-- children know they can't curse out a teacher for getting a bad grade-- what serena teaches is that you can confront the teacher in the first place--- children are not stupid..they realize that serena was under huge pressure-- if anything they got a lesson in how to confront those pressures because serena came right out and said that she responded in a bad way-- but that is the key point-- she is not saying that she should not have responded-- she correctly states that the manner was wrong--a young black woman standing up in front of millions of people and asserting herself is the baseline plus we get in this case now as far as the threat goes, it was not a true threat, she said she was going to shove a tennis ball down the lineman's throat of course, this could not be accomplished-- the ball is too big-- but the lineman converted this language into a direct threat on her life when it is clear serena was only using a common phrase and not a direct threat but the line person lied, she said that serena threatened to kill her-- that exaggeration is a symbol of the foot fault call itself-- the line person went too far in the situation, making a call against serena despite the fact that serena gained no advantage if her foot was 20 percent of an inch over the line-- the NBA playoffs make the refs fall back and let the players play don't we have the same siutation here??? semi finals of the US OPEN? one point away from match point-- and you call a foot fault? Serena is lucky I was not her coach (or boyfriend/husband/brother etc...) I would have climbed over and onto the court and given that woman a yelling she would not soon forget also -- serena never came within any distance to do harm, in fact -- she purposefully used her body language to show that she was keeping her distance of the woman... unlike john mcenroe and jimmy connors who have physcially pushed linesmen, made real threats against them that could be seen as terroristic threats-- saying you will shove a tennis ball down someone's throat is going the other route from s terroristic threat-- since you are choosing an act that can not be accomplished-- so we have a clear double standard here-- in the 70s and arely 80s connors and mcenroe got to play on-- sometimes they were ejected but very rarely-- outburst after outburst through out a match-- it was like the fighting in hockey-- everyone loved the drama-- now here comes serena and she can not even get near that role-- because females have to be disctrete and submissive-- you can just sense the pride in serena as she walks past those frumpy women at the tennis club in England after she crushed all the competition-- that pride resonates-- she is a national treasure
I hate to be synical...but it's pretty interesting that the day after the U.S. Open and the controversy surrounding her foot faults, Serena goes on a book tour to promote her new book "On The Line"?? Who gets the profit from this book Serena?
Pardon me..my earlier comment had a spelling error. Please read cynical, not synical...sorry
I don't usually comment on pages but feel compelled to say something about all the negative comments. I am so tired of all the haters out there. ESPECIALLY prejudice and racist white people who just love to bring a black person down just as soon as they make a mistake. We all yell at umpires and referees in all other sports and Serena simply lost her temper. She apologized so let's all just move on. Stop trying to make it more than it was.
Hey Serena, congratulations to you and Venus on your doubles win. Stay positive. Don't let anybody bring you down and if they try, get your big sister, she'll set them straight. I love Venus protecting you. Anyway, as I said to Venus, I just saw that you are entering Tokoyo. I'm sooooooo happy to know that. I can't wait for Sept. 27 to come. Until then, enjoy your new furniture, get some well needed rest and don't listen to the media, they make me sick, especially ESPN. Love you Serena.
HEY SERENA MY NAME IS MORAH QUINLAN FROM ST LUCIA. I AM YOUR BIGGEST FAN EVER I SAW THE MATCH AND GUESS WHAT YOU HAVE ALL OF MY SUPPORT ALL THAT YOU CAN EVER NEED. I WILL ALWAYS BE ONE WHO FOLLOWS YOU AND I PLAY TENNIS SO I UNDERSTAND THE WAY YOU FELT. LIFE HAPPENS SO WHAT. YOUR WERE FORGIVEN BY ME EVEN BEFOR YOU LEFT THE STADIUM AND HAVE DEFENDED YOU FROM DUSK TILL DAWN. I HAVE YOUR BOOK ON THE LINE I ORDERED IT THE DAY BEFOR IT HIT THE MARKET FROM AMAZON.COM AS WELL AS SERVING FROM THE HIP. AM I A DEDICATED FAN OR WHAT. I JUST WISH I COULD HAVE GOTTEN IT SIGNED BUT HAVING IT MEANS JUST AS MUCH. OH HOW MUCH I LOVED IT "MEEKA" (LAUGHTER) AWWWWWWWWWWW DADDY'S BIG BABY. ANYWAY STAY TRUE TO YOU AND PUT JEHOVAH GOD FIRST LIKE YOU WERE TAUGHT AND TRUST ME GIRL EVERYTHING ELSE WILL FALL IN LINE. YOU WILL GET ANOTHER SHOT AT KIM THAT I AM CERTAIN OF AND WE BOTH KNOW WHAT THE RESULTS AND HEADLINES ARE GONNA BE. LOVE YOU ALWAYS GIRL YOUR #1 FAN MORAH QUINLAN
I am in support of you in your struggle, I sincerely believe that you were robbed in order to make Kim Clister a rival white hope. I just hope that you remember that the next time you play her. I also have a suggestion for you and your sister. The next time that it rains in the middle of a tournament try going to a sauna or steam bath in order to clean your body out from the poison that is coming from the sky in the form of rain. Peace & love
Hi Serena, you are the daughter in my head. I have been a fan since you started playing tennis. I accept your apology as a fan but I didn't feel you needed to apologized. I told my friend Veronica ,when she said ,"that you displayed such lack of sportsmanship", I told her , that we all at one time or another have lost our cool at work. The tennis court is where you are most likely to get frustrated. I also said, that you are not the first pro to act out were you work and that you want be the last. Serena, girl keep doing you!!!!!!!! Love Love Love You Jamie
Serena - we all make mistakes for the love of the game. We are your fans in GOOD AND BAD Time. I have served in the US Army and maintain a long standing motto of never leaving a soldier behind...you are my tennis warrior so I (and the your other true fans) have your back... LET'S WIN EVERYTHING....and shut the critics up! Love you girl!!!! Jazz
I have always been a big fan but sorry to say I am no longer a fan! Foot fault? Ridiculous call! Tirade? No different than a lot of other players! The big difference is that you failed to make a sincere apology, showed no humility and acted like a moron during your first press conference. Too little too late Serena...I'm afraid you have lost many fans and will never be viewed the same when you step on the court.
Hi Sere. We your fans still love u despite of what happened and it was good of u to apologize and move on with life. wishing u success as u write and launch your book.
Sorry, your too little too late. It's obvious if you didn't opologize right away, that when you finally did it's because someone had to tell you to-for your own sake-your own popularity-that's the only reason you did. It wasn't really you to do such a thing. You don't even know how to talk right-on Regis and Kelly you said "deafly" afraid of you Regis, joking. The word is "deathly" you idiot!!! On Good Morning America I couldn't believe how many times you said the title of your book while talking-you were there just to promote it!! And you still trivialized what you did. You're a lo-class, no-class woman. You make black women and tennis look bad. Your a real loser.
Congrads on your new book. We are over the incident now. Things happen and people get agitated and frustrated. That's life. Let's move on.
Your match with Kim Clijsters was the first pro tennis match my husband and I have ever seen, finally getting tickets after trying for 25 years (too expensive) and waiting 10 1/2 hours in rain delays. Even though people think we are lucky to have witnessed all the drama from that evening, we just think it's sad, especially in a stadium named for a man of great integrity and sportsmanship. I know many people who are "passionate" and competetive who at their worst could not behave in such a way! Clean up your act, Serena. It's not all about you!!!
WHAT IS WRONG W/YOU PEOPLE...this kind of behavoir from Serena or any professional athlete for that matter is COMPLETELY UNACCEPTABLE, you Serena crossed the line by CUSING OUT & THREATNING TO SHOVE A F%$#G BALL DOWN A LINE JUDGE'S THROAT for crying out loud. You should be banned from the sport, It all started how many years ago when the beads were falling out of the hair of you & your sister & it should end with this. Oh & let us promote our new book & not address the issues that Chris C asked you on GMA. You owe that line judge & many others a SINCERE APOLOGY & your after the match interview was a complete joke. You are a laughing stock & you know it. I didn't lose any respect for you because there was none to lose. I LOWERED myself to join your website ONLY to voice my complete disgust. It is not all about you, it's about the class of the sport you unclassed & disgraced. Remain positive somewhere other than the court which you don't deserve to play on any longer after this.
Hey Serena. I think you are awesome. We all make mistakes, just most of us do not do it on TV in front of so many people. We love you. Keep up your great work and continue onwards.
Serena, First I would like to say that I enjoy watching you and your sister play tennis. Keep your head up high and do your thing. Don't let any of the haters get you down. Everyone has their bad moments so for all the people with the bad comments I think they are disrespectful post them on your site. You apoligized why can everyone accept that and move on. The linesperson must have not been to afraid she came back to her spot. If I was afraid I would not have not. Keep doing your thing and forget about the media , Mary Carillo and the MacEnroes you do not need them they need you in order to have a job!
Serena, you are a nice person, I watch all your games,but at times we get caught up in the moment. But what i want to tell you is that if the USTA want to take your money, tell them that you play for the people and that whatever money they have for you send it to CHARITY. You did not loose any thing. Stay strong, and beat all those people.
your only human, everyone snaps once in awhile, no one is perfect so don't sweat it!
Hey Serena, please post this comment for all of those negative people. I mean I don't want to get into a blog fight with some of these people but they need to stop it and grow up. I love Beyonce but why in the HEC do you need to look to her for guidance, you have GREAT PARENTS, Big sisters and from what I can tell from being a TRUE fan and following you and Venus's careers, you have positive people around you. Everyone makes mistakes so to those who act like they never have and that they're not going to make any mistakes. I say to you that you know where you are today but you don't know where you will be tomorrow. For the love of God you made a mistake regardless of how long it took or how you apologized the fact is that you apologized. I'm so sick of the people in this world not wanting to forgive and analyzing you as if they actually know you like that. If God can forgive who are we not to. The bible actually says for us to forgive one another so that we can be forgived by God that is. Have you people ever heard of judge not less ye be judged. So to all of you negative people Serena keeps trying to tell ya'll that she's moved on. I would hate to see what your relationships are like or is it that Serena is a celebrity and you guys are hating. So there you STOP it and you GROW UP and you look to Beyonce for GUIDANCE. Go read your bible start with Matthew that's where god talks about forgiving and judging. Anyway Serena me, my husband and kids we love you and Venus. If it weren't for you and V we wouldn't have any SUPERSTAR tennis players for the US, so thanks.....
Ms. Serena, I would like to say I'm proud to be a member of your fan club. OK, you messed up. We all do. We just all don't have the entire world looking at us when we do it! You not only play, but have EXCELLED at one of the most competiive, stressfull and demanding sports in the world! Several years ago a young lady I was dating tried, HARD, to teach me the sport and it resulted in blow-ups that would make yours look like a polite dissagreement!! I have ALWAYS been a fan of you and your wonderfull sister! Both of you are champions!!! I must admit to being SHOCKED when I saw what happened, but I believe you have handled it well. The media and the haters have had their 'pound of flesh' now to hell with them! You admitted your mistake, apologized for it, now lets all MOVE ON!!! I don't think you let anybody down, you just showed you are human. I respect and admire you and your sister. I look forward to reading your book! Do you remember the 'hair bead' incident?? I can't recall if it was you or Venus that it happened to, but it was a LONG time ago! Anyway, I stand behind you, for what it's worth. Peace and Love!!
I am white and You were right. She did not wanted you to win, or she is an idiot - in both cases her place is not on the tennis court and she deserved F words. Yes, they will make You pay for being Yourself with explanations that it is good for You and false hopes that will change You. Also, they will not mention Federers F word. So what? You know You are the best and they can breathe dust behind you. I like You the way You are and You are my favourite personality on tennis courts ever. I really liked Your comment "forehand on holiday", and that is the champions way to deal with problems - with smile. Love You, Veljko
Good going Serena! I'm glad that you apologised. It only goes to show how big of a person you really are. You're still my ACE.
Serena, I think it would be a great move for you to offer to be a linesperson in some amateur tournament. Putting yourself in the place of the linesperson would help you empathize somewhat with the woman who was performing her duties on the night of your match. I think the majority of people understand that in the heat of the moment, you let your emotions get the best of you. I can't help imagining the difference in fallout if you handled the immediate interviews in a different way. If you used your sense of humor to poke fun at yourself and if you have humility to sincerely express it towards the linesperson. There is no question that all intelligent viewers saw the response for what it was - insincere, then scripted by someone else for minimizing damage. I think your handlers got it wrong. They see rich, spoiled star demolishing poor, weak lineswoman. It is not too late to do something creative and sincere and coming clean otherwise the clip of your tirade will find a permanent place in the "bad behavior caught on film" archives right beside Gary Coleman hanging on to the hood of a car.
Serena, you are an amazing tennis player and person - the line judge made a big mistake as well. Where was the foot fault? I'd like to hear her apologize. Enjoy your time off - Julie Kaufmann
to dave williams..your comments were unnecessary. What gives you the right to judge. We all have blown a gasket under pressure. It's not that she is spoiled. She is HUMAN.. Her behavior was out of character. She deserves a break. Serena is nothing like Kanye West that's an insult. Look at you before you get of her website and trash her SHAME ON YOU. Serena be strong. You have done all you can do. You have not lost any fans. You have gain fans. You showed you are human. GOOD LUCK.
one thing i don't get with some of the hardcore fans is this concept that if it really wasn't a footfault then she had every right to unload on the line judge? From my TV it looked like her foot slid forward onto the line before the jump but I can't be sure. But who cares? Even if she was 4 feet back, lodge a protest but don't threaten the line judge. The line judge is not given the authority to decide on her own not to call it if it's late in a set or if one has been called before, BUT WHO CARES??? Maybe the judge made an error, BUT WHO CARES??? yah, yah, a conspiracy against her just like the 200 police who conspired against O.J.
I watched the men finals. I was shocked at the Umpire/Referee for allowing Roger Federer to curse the way he did. not once,twice but three times. not even a warning. He is an arrogant jerk. Double standards. In a way this shows racism which you and Venus have experienced over the years. I am still a fan and will always be. Smile it looks good on you. Title for your next book FOOT FAULT. stay strong. GOOD LUCK
It is amazing how individuals can look into someone else’s moment and judge and forget that everyone is human. All of us, at some moment in time, have allowed frustration to overwhelm us. For the life of me, why people of non-celebrity status can demand perfection from their celebrity counterparts when they themselves cannot. When our job is threatened, and we are placed in a situation, we too lash out, at times, because it’s our livelihood; it's a natural defense. We always throw the children into how someone’s behavior may affect them or how they “look up to them,” but in reality it’s the adults who are so easily unforgiving and judgmental for a selected few. Football, baseball, and basketball players have demonstrate frustration and offensive behavior and I never seen this type of outrage. Even in the game of tennis, John McEnroe, outburst behavior was celebrated by fans all over. As stated before, "it shows his competiveness." Why is it any different for this young lady? So people, “get over it,” and stop looking for a perfect celebrity or non-celeb. Stop looking for an apology to the world, when and if an apology is warranted, it’s between the two parties involved. We are flawed beings; and the money, cameras, or fame cannot mold anyone to a place that limits any human the opportunity of being themselves which at times shows our raw emotions. Serena is no different from the rest of us.
I will always be your fan
Wow, first i find it interesting someone called the game of tennis a, "gentlemen's" game. What part of the backwoods of England did you come from? It's a new game buddy and you better get used to it. With the new generation X player coming, you are going to have to go to way more fan sites to bash players than this one. These young players are passionate and sincere about their JOB. Yes I said job. This is serena's job and she had a bad day at the office. For you to think that this is a game anymore, shows that you are probably an old guy. It's a buisness where players get paid more money than your high and mighty butt could ever dream of. But they work hard for that money and certainly don't owe any excuse for having a bad day. Could serena have reacted differently? Yes she could have. But how often does she and Venus complain to the umpire of judges? Almost never. If you watched that game and even the game before that, you saw the bad calls. One call was so bad in her quarter finals game that the crowd reacted. Serena kept on playing the game and won. For the people who say she got mad because she was loosing, that's why she reacted the way she did? Please!!! Serena has come back in way worse situations. That's why she is a champion. That game was no where near over. For the people who compared Serena to Kanye? Kanye acted like an ass and there was no passion in why he behaved badly. serena's behavior was definitely passionate. The only thing the two incidents have in common is that they were both black. Oh yea, I played the race card. Your remark was racist and go get on one of the Russian's fan sites. That is about as racisit as your remark. The bottom line is, the tennis community had better get ready. because the new generation of tennis player are not going to take the crap from bad umpires and line judges. They are going to start to demand that these officials are held accountable and be proficient, just like the NBA or NFL. For all we know, the line judge could have placed a bet on that match. Don't ever say never.
Good Morning Serena, first of all thank you for the apology. I know you have been in the business over 15 years and this is the very first time you displayed unprofessionalism. And I have been one of your biggest allies on this situation. In some part I understand because it seemed like only you and V were getting calls on foot faults. And I watched a lot of tennis. My niece Tia is 11,plays jr. tennis and a hugh fan, she saw the incident she was surprised but still loves you. People talked about you being a role model, you and V are her role model and continue to be a role model to her that will never change. We love you and your family and will support you. I pick your book up for her on Tues and people ask about the issue in Borders and I walked with my head high and defended you and will do it again. Much love, Cheryl & Tia!!!!
You remain positive baby girl. The best way to defeat the ones that are trying to damage your image is to keep on being the best at what you do. With your tenacity and determination you should set a goal to win all 4 majors next year. I know you can do it. Don't lament over blowing up because iron wears out. You have apologized, which was very big of you in my opinion considering what you had gone through. So move on baby with your racket held high.
Kanye Northwest? Please don't tell Serena to stop giving honor to Jehovah. No matter how YOU may feel, JEHOVAH wants His name known throughout the nations. Serena is growing. The Bible is based on principles, not laws. If she and her sister decide they want to make tennis a secular job, then they have that right. They are not playing the sport for trophies. Stop thinking of only YOUR feelings Kanye. These women have charities, and their investments are not just self-serving. Remember this, Lionesses hunt and feed the entire klan. Keep growing spiritually, and you will discern the deeper things of this situation.
Serena, It's time to move on girl. Stop apologizing to these people. The ones that are still angry or got angry in the first place never liked you anyway and are trying to make you feel worse then you should. As long as your real fans and sponsors are cool, do you. The only reason I was upset about the situation is that you gave these fools something to talk about besides how Fierce you really are. Keep your head up. You have alot of support from places you don't even know about. Let them try and screw you and you will see. They will wake a sleeping giant.
Actually, the Hebrew scriptures was based on set laws given to Moses, called the Mosaic Law. When Jesus came as the Messiah, he died once for all time. Therefore, there was no need for the LAW, which used animals as sacrifices. Jesus covered that once and for all. We ALL sin and fall short of God's requirements.
Sincerely I did not watch the event on TV, because I am living in Africa and that moment I have not light to watch your game. So you have to understand that everybody has a default it is not you alone. As you asked forgiveness, understand me like your supporter, I have already forgotten and I will support for ever whatever your situation and the moment. As for me you are the best of the best tennis player. Forget the past, follow the future, nobody is perfect. As soon
Serena, I joined this fan site the day after the US Open semis, specifically to show my support. I truly believe that a natural, human error was blown out of proportion by the media - a media dominated by white males (which I am one), or at least a value system dictated by the mores of this group. Competitive athletes live in the moment. It is why they succeed. Why is no one (with the refreshing exception of John McEnroe and a few others) asking, "Why a foot fault call? Why then?" An excellent tennis match was ruined by that very, very poor call, and we all know what happened next. All the best, Ben Moore
Guess what people. Serena never used the word "F.....k" during that so-called outburst. She said "Freaking." TMZ.com got a video on their site from a fan who was at the US Tennis Open when the incident occurred..this fan shot the video and when you listen to it she is clearly saying, "FREAKING." Wow, if that's the case Serena is being ridiculed for nothing. Check out tmz.com, they are very reliable. Betty
To Sioux-zen glique, Alexa Smith, Shawn Olson, Gayla Kaiser, Mike Chablis, Lisa Frye, J. Gross, Gina Pacifica, Kris Maita, Scott Scharff, et al: I am getting really fed up with you and others accusing Serena of threatnening the lineswoman!! Technically, Serena did not threaten the lady, she said: "I swear to God, I feel like shoving this F****ng tennis ball down your throat". That is more like a swear not a threat; furthemore, it would have been impossible for Serena to do such a thing in the first place. All of you really need to GROW UP!! It is not Serena's responsibility to raise YOUR children. Those of you who stated that none of the male players ever threaten any officials- YOU ARE A LIAR and you need to do some research!!! Andre Agassi purposely hit a female linesman with an 130mph serve; McEnroe threw chairs and rackets at linesmen and umpire; and many other males got DIRECTLY IN THE OFFICIALS' FACE TO CURSE THEM OUT!! All of you need to get off of your high-horse and get a life.
Great you are remaining positive!! The intensity which has made you a great champion can sometimes make you vulnerable to an emotional expression you later regret. Keep your head up. There are so many non achievers who are always looking to tear down the people who are out there putting themselves on the line, especially when they are successful, at all levels of society and all venues. Wishing you the best.
Serena, am just reading all these wonderful comments, giving you advice on how to live your life. Saying that you need to grow up, an how you need to look to other people for guidence. I am wondering, it must be so rewarding for those people, not to have made any mistakes in their lives. You guys need to stop. I am sure there are things in your life, that you have done that was not considered right, but the only thing is that you are not in the spot light like she is. Yes her actions could be labeled as wrong. But this is not the first time she has been cheated at the open. Capriati match ring a bell? Was it sportmanship on Capriait's part to just say nothing, when she knew that the ball was in. Serena was caught up in the momemnt. And I forgive her. I think Venus said it right, when she put Mr. Davis Cup Captain back in his place. "people lets move on".
I JUST SAW THE VIDEO ON SERENA AT THE US OPEN. SHE NEVER SAID FU-----! THE MEDIA OWES SERENA AN APOLOGY.
I ANNOUNCED THIS TO THE OLDER FRIENDS OF MY CONGREGATION. THEY ARE SO RELIEVED AND HAPPY THAT YOU DIDN'T SAY THAT. I WATCHED IT SEVERAL TIMES SERENA. YOU SAID FREAKIN' NOT THE OTHER F WORD.
I am glad you are such a great role model.....when I played college tennis I was not quite as nice and I dont care who you are but a judge should never call a foot fault at such a crucial point..That witch lost the match and what people dont understand about tennis is that adrenaline pump. It gets out of control sometimes. I hope she learned her lesson and will not be allowed to call matches.....obviously, you learned yours. Your not only a lady but a black lady who is stylin'. I follow you on twitter Thats a painting of me on my pic. XOXO Celeste
I received an email from serenawilliams.com today, addressing the comment I sent after the U.S. Open finals and I'd like to say thank you for responding. And thank you for what you said with regard to your behavior during that match. It would be wrong for me to allow that one instance to define your entire career. You are a great tennis player and a generous human being and I'd only be hurting myself if I chose to never watch you play again. Onward and upward! May God continue to bless you. Still a fan, KATH
to monika shelton, get a life. she lost it. a person with great character would immediately and sincerely apologize. that's the problem. spin, spin, spin if someone else lost it, that doesn't make it alright. whether she likes it or not she is teaching our children unless be ban the children from watching her....and we should if she can't admit she shouldn't have done that. thank god for the station for blanking out most of the threat
To Michael Chablis, YOU NEED TO GROW UP! It is not Serena's responsibility to raise your children. I was also watching the entire game with my little cousins, and they were not horrified by what they saw. Mainly, they did not understand what she was saying in the first place; furthermore, it was the media that really spinned things out of control. If you are a good parent then your children will not be affected by anything a STRANGER does on TV!!! I strongly suggest that you take a look at TMZ video from actual game. This video clip states the real truth and not just some fake media spin.
Dear Monika, I need to grow up??? Me, the multimillionaire tennis star threatening some poor innocent woman, stamping my feet, wielding my racket demonstrating how I'll shove a ball down her throat because a call didn't go my way...is that the "me" you are talking about that has to grow up? Serena can do whatever she wants. I, and many,many others saw her behavior as threatening and unprofessional. And it was a great lesson for my children on how not to behave. I had them watch the interview clips as well so that they could see what a hollow apology looks like....actually, it didn't make it into the category of apology until later. There are many people in the world that lose their cool. I have no problem with that. I don't think the media blew anything out of proportion. I think if someone came at her like that, you would see what proportion was. Serena has the same value as a human as that lineswoman. I sympathize with the unnamed lineswoman. It came across to me like a rich priviledged person tearing a strip off of their servant. Ironic isn't it Monika. Serena does lots of good stuff, however, I think she has some things to work on in the area of humility. Often when losing she talks or how poorly she played rather than how well her opponent played to beat her. That comes across as an inference that she knows she is better but just had a bad day which is not great sportsmanship. Small flaw - she can act as she pleases but don't expect the general public to love her like they do the character of Roger Federer for instance. Yes there are other bad tempered players, politicians, businessmen and we have a balanced lack of respect for them as well when lose it and fail to take accountability. That outburst was, in the opinion of many, an ugly incident that would make the top ten list for the last 50 years. Sorry, but that is the truth and you only need to observe the reactions to realize that. Not a conspiracy. Nobody wants to take her down, just amusing to see a rich priviledged person lose it like that.
You live and you learn. Everything that happens in life happens for a reason. Hopefully you will learn from the situation and move on. You are still a SuperStar to me
Dear Mike, I assume that you did not watch the video on TMZ, then again that might have still not changed your perspective. Yes, Serena was wrong for going off on that lady; however, she does not deserve to be ostracized like this. Even if it was Maria Sharapova who lost her temper like Serena did, I would still give her the benefit of a doubt. There is a such thing as provoking an individual and Serena has been provoked by officials and media for over ten years. What do you think will happen if you keep pushing someone into a corner, eventually she/he is going to push you back. I think that you would better understand why she did not apologize immediately after the match if you would put yourself in her shoes. I do not believe for one second that that lady official was not aware of the ridicolous call she made- even the commentators accused her of over officiating. Also, the fans initially BOOED the official. It seems to me that it was the official who was absolutely SELFISH and I have no mercy for her.
monika, you mean the tmz video called "face of anger" ;-) you really are troubled thinking that there is some conspiracy against Serena. the white opressors paying her millions to come to their tournaments. seek councilling sister
Sorry, Betty Synder ... guess you didn't see the note under the video at TMZ ... "The video starts a few seconds into Serena's explosion -- after she threatened the judge by saying, "If I could, I would take this f**king ball and shove it down your f**king throat." What you hear on the video at TMZ is AFTER .... "she threatened the judge by saying, "If I could, I would take this f**king ball and shove it down your f**king throat."
Hi girl, sometimes tempos are high especially if you are aiming for victory, but thats life. this is not the end of the world. events are coming and Pray to God that you would continue to be victorious. Love you.
I wish you all never to do any mistake, but if you´re saying you never did so you lie. People will always rather point out the other mistakes than their own. How pitiful! Life is too short. I moved on, but I have to say I´m proud of Serena! Plus to let the haters know I do not care for Clijsters, Safina, Jankovic and the others women´s tennis players except they play against Venus or Serena. I would never watch their full matches, because I would die of boredom and I love myself. No one is interested in the empty talk ot the haters or whatever they post here on Serena´s site. All they do is just disserviceable, because it makes the relationship between Serena and us her true fans even stronger. I can tell that if Serena will be suspended or whatever, the women´s tennis will be over for us, but not Serena herself. We like Serena and we go with her and we will do everything to make her happy. This is the most important for us and not the tennis community!!
thanks Tina for reminding me I was not the only one that could read lip properly. Monika and others seem to think Serena was setting up a tea social later in the evening. The other millions of people all agreed to conspire to turn this into a negative thing. Then there was the consipacy in 2008 - remember the double fault where they tried to push Serena over the edge - those people up in the space ship orchestrating this anti-Williams thing. - they did their best work when the got Mary Carillo installed as a commentator, slowly pushing out subliminal messages to all people. If the world was fair, when Serena invited the linesman for tea, Carillo and the USTA should have retroactively fined, banned, and sanctioned John MacEnroe for his behavior back in 70's, and Carillo and the team should have discussed what a horrible priviledged person John was. They should have had a graphic ready to bring up all the previous meldowns in history, and compare the relative penalties and concluded that Serena in fact deserved accolades for NOT melting down last year when she received that double fault in the second set just when mometum seemed to be going her way. Has that investigation completed on the lineswoman determining what caused her racist behavior or was there any suspicious huge deposits in her bank account lately? Monika, you don't do Serena any favors with your insane rhetoric. Incredible athlete, got crazy for a moment, needs to reflect on it and try to do better next time. Probably could benefit by matching her fine with a donation to some great charity. Handlers should be fired for not realizing that the media would run with this one if she didn't respond correctly, which she didn't. Damage control doesn't mean denial, it means admitting you lost it and trying your best to fix all the damage; to linesmen, to usta, to fans, to opponent. Done. Highlight reel filled with apology.
To Mike and Tina, Here is the exact caption below the video that you two refused to accept because you do not like Serena: "The video starts a few seconds into Serena's explosion -- after she threatened the judge by saying, "If I could, I would take this f**king ball and shove it down your f**king throat." In our video you can hear her tell the line judge, "You better be freaking glad I don't do that ... you don't know me!" Even though Serena started saying "freaking" instead of "f**king" -- CBS still bleeped it." It is obvious that neither of you will admit that the media twisted her words around. Mike, I really do not buy into the reading of lips nonsense, you read what you wanted to read by accusing her of saying the F word. If anybody is spinning rhetoric, it is you! I am not saying that Serena did not handle the situation properly, but I am saying that she was a human being who lost her temper and SHE DID NOT THREATEN THAT OFFICIAL. Tina also needs to get her facts straight. It is not fair to all of a sudden suspend and ban Serena when the USTA has never done that before to other players. What they need to do and should have already done was to have clear instructions and penalties for certain behaviors; opposing to, making up new penalties as stuff happens. You are going to stand by your opinion and I am going to stand by mine.
excellent monika. you stand by your view I'll stand by mine. let the millions stand by theirs'. there is no conspiracy. if someone had said that to Serena and approached Serena that way, they'd be in jail for assault and for good reason. Saying you will shove a tennis ball down someones throat is a threat and it is assault. to suggest she was treated unfairly is comical as she was given a one point penalty for a second violent act. if you think television executives or Mary Carillo huddled and agreed to try to twist this then lets get together and you can show me your scar from the alien probe.
Mike, I never mention anything about Mary Carillo or aliens. Once again you ignored what I said earlier, and this is what Serena really said which validates my opinion that she did not threaten that official: "In our video you can hear her tell the line judge, "You better be freaking glad I don't do that ... you don't know me!" You and I both know that TMZ does not suck up to any celebrities. No tennis player has been suspended on their first bad behavior. THIS IS SERENA'S FIRST MISCONDUCT, give her a break.
I never suggested she should be kicked off of the tour. My main point is that she had a very bad day and made it worse by the attempted spin. Another linesperson might have had her charged with assault and tried to profit from it. This one showed great character by just absorbing the tirade without responding to make it worse. She showed bravery in making an unpopular but legitimate call and clearly wasn't looking for this kind of noteriety. I don't think Serena was EVER viewed as a Roger in terms of the perception of his sportsmanship - certainly not by me. She's never been one to take losing well or to applaud the brilliant tennis of others. That's okay. She gets the "fierce competitor" moniker but not "great sportsmanship" moniker. Her sister on the other hand has a very kind, sweet demeanour and tends to be more gracious in defeat. But reading the fan mail here you would think this whole incident was something planned and stimulated by the Serena-haters. Serena brought it on, and other than a few extreme, ignorant comments, it was a case of extreme public curiousity which would have been easily stemmed by some down home honestety and humility right away. If there were anti-Serena aliens, she played right into their hands.
Hi Monika, I was responding to Betty Synder's posting on Thursday ... "Guess what people. Serena never used the word "F.....k" during that so-called outburst.” … NEVER, being the incorrect word. You wrote, “Here is the exact caption below the video … “The video starts a few seconds into Serena's explosion -- after she threatened the judge by saying, "If I could, I would take this f**king ball and shove it down your f**king throat." So, the TMZ states, “The video starts a few seconds into Serena's explosion -- AFTER she THREATENED the judge by saying, "If I could, I would take this f**king ball and SHOVE IT DOWN your f**king throat." … You continue Monica, “In our video you can hear her tell the line judge, "You better be freaking glad I don't do that ... you don't know me!" Even though Serena started saying "freaking" instead of "f**king" -- CBS still bleeped it." … Serena said f**king at the beginning and started saying "freaking" at the end. (So, yes, Betty Synder was incorrect to have written "Guess what people. Serena never used the word "F.....k" during that so-called outburst.”) … If you look at the CBS video you see that fans in the stands were shocked at what Serena was doing … especially one lady in red and another person who appears to be a US Open employee and covers her mouth in disbelief. If a person advances towards an official, shoves their racquet towards them and says, "If I could, I would take this f**king ball and SHOVE IT DOWN your f**king throat." … that unfortunately CROSSES THE LINE and is unacceptable behavior … as Serena later confessed. (Even if she never said f**king … but, unfortunately she did.)
I am sure all three of us have heard much worse comments than that over parking spaces and other road rage incidents. I have been verbally abused by a customer who threatened to slit my throat because I did not have any more ten dollar bills to give him. Everybody has experienced some type of verbal abuse from another person once in our lifetime. Because of the statement from TMZ and the fact that it was no way possible for Serena to actually stuff a tennis ball down her throat- I do not consider any of Serena's actions or words threatening. Also in my opinion, it really does not matter whether she pointed a racket or her finger at the official, IT WAS HUMAN ERROR, POINT BLANK. Anybody would have been livid when facing the possibility of losing more than 400K in winnings because of a foot fault.
Serena, you are a great tennis player and I love you so much...I just laugh my lungs out when I hear these haters hating on you for you have achieved more than what any female tennis player who is active now in the whole world has. Keep on doing what you do and we will support you always..God bless you.. And i was still waiting to hear what disparaging words were going to be lashed at Roger Federer for cussing at the umpire during his match but, just like I expected, NO IDIOT had the guts to do it but they were ready to judge you. GO Serena.
Serena regardless of your celebrity you are still human stop beating yourself up over the incident learn from it and move on. I am still one of your biggest fans. GO GET EM GIRL
hi Serena, my name is Steven Tyler, and I think you dd the right thing by apologizing to everyone and hey we all make mistakes but mos of al GOD forgives even if people don't so keep your head up and continue with your life like you already are hey thats the past and don't dwell on the past today is a new day and old tings are passed away and by the way you looked good on HSN today lol
How dare you!!! What's this crap about saying you are remaining positive like you were somehow victimized. If a man threatened a woman violently the way you did, he would be arrested for assault. And here you are prancing around as if you are acting strong after being attacked. What is worse is that your outburst was directed at a smaller Asian woman. Let me see you try that with a Caucasian linesperson. But no you wouldn't because you know your career (and probably you life) will be in danger. You are so courageous, not. Your fans are idiots for supporting you after that act of cowardice.
For Monika Shelton... ...Your communication with Mike Chablis - in my opinion (IMO) - is a perfect example of how in our country - most - for all intents and purposes have lost the will to cross-pollinate with others' ideas - comments - sugggestions, etc. ...In the law school (& I agree with Shakespeare - that the 1st thing to do is get rid of all lawyers) students learn that if you can't prevail with arguments on the points of law (or morality, etc.) you need to try to 'kill-off' your adversary by escalating personal attacks. ...Monika - do you know what hyperbole is? You employ it at every turn. ...Whether Serena wants to be a role model for kids - she is - period. It comes with the territory. Monika - you conflated her de facto being a role model - with those of us sending Serena 'constructive criticism" on the subject - as us expecting Serena to 'raise our children for us!' Consciously or unconsciously, you - IMO - are acting as Serena's surrogate & projecting responsibility for behaviour-worth-emulating on to us - versus onto to Serena & the world stage she occupies. ...The fact that you refuse - Monika - to acknowledge any threatening aspect of what happened between Serena & the lineswoman - IMO reveals your inner inability to effectively deal with criticism. The bottom line has nothing to do with whether Serena said FREAKING or *%@KING! A tennis ball down someone's throat speaks for itself. Serena saying that's not who she is - does not negate the 1st statement. ...As to Serena's lack of owning fully what happened - it is clear to me that her life's inner personal difficulties will never be resolved unless she adheres to the Psychology 101 tenet: If you can't name it - you can't fix it! ...Monika - that applies to you as well - in spades!
Sioux. I'm baffled by your statement that people are taught in law school to resort to personal attacks if they cannot prevail on their legal arguements. I was never taught that and I have never personally attacked opposing counsel.
1)It would be greatly appreciated if you would stop trying to treat this incident like a college class; furthermore, I strongly suggest that you come back down to earth and deal with reality. Law school, philosophy, and psychology has nothing to do with this incident. I never attack anyone’s personal character. 2)It is not Serena’s responsibility to raise anyone’s children simply means that ONLY THE PARENTS can teach their children ethics and morals that will shapen his/her character. It is ridiculous to expect one’s children to learn positive morals from a STRANGER and that is not a hyperbole. We do not know Serena personally, we only know her from a external perspective. 3)You telling Serena to lose the bling and her earrings in your first comment is NOT CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM. The fact that she said Freaking instead of F****ng does make a difference: it is evidence as to how the media twisted her words around for their own benefit without any regard for her reputation. The fact that she said “You better be freaking glad I don't do that ... you don't know me!" ELIMINATES the notion that she threatened that official!! You obviously refuse to accept the aforementioned because of your own bias. Her slamming her racket down on the ground earlier has nothing to do with her going off on the official- she was angry at herself. Do you also want an apology from Wozniacki for slamming her racket at the finals? 4)I have said on more than one occasion that Serena was wrong for going off on the official but the bottom line is that Serena owned up to her mistake and she apologized. Now let’s move on.
This is absolutely disgusting! I feel like you have nothing to apologize for. I did not catch you saying anything on tv wrong, maybe my audio was messed up? Since when is it illegal and unsportsmanlike to shake your ball and racket? Why was that line referee on you so hard in the first place? If only tennis would concentrate on expanding the mindset of players, refs, and the spectator; it might turn into an enjoyable experience for everyone. I have been an avid fan of tennis for a very long time! Although, it sickens me to watch this neandrothol attitude that others have and pass on to good people such as yourself!! Why is it acceptable for some things to pass out of the mouths of those around you, and not for yourself? Where is there GRAND APOLOGIES? What makes you the acception to having no grace? Also, the fans are getting WAY out of control. It seems to no longer be about the LOVE of the game~but how much of what ever greedy addiction can be fulfilled. I play casually, and I know full well about the cheating that goes on. It is truley disgusting, and I am ashamed to see this bad attitude of others is how the world is trying to always be run. It is doing nothing but trying furiously to break the spirit of those that are steadily working to stay happy and help others. News Flash! it doesn't work!!!~ So, keep your head up. Keep your game strong. Keep caring for others. Keep fashion forward! Keep thinking Green!!!! The book will be awesome and I can't wait to get a copy! Love ya!
Niki Hello … you wrote, “maybe my audio was messed up?” Yes, it must have been. And I guess you didn't see the rage.
SJW, I want to share a letter that I wrote to LA Times sports writer Bill Dwyre. He wrote an article in the Sept. 13 Sunday paper entitled "Serena Acts Outrageously". I hope you enjoy. ______________________________________________________________ Dear Mr. Dwyre: Here is the title of your next column. "Federer Acts Outrageously".........or something of the sort. Sir, did you happen to catch the Men's singles final of the US Open on Monday night? Federer acted out in such a manner that it leaves in question whether or not he made a fool of himself on national television. And by the way millions watched this one too. In case you were watching the Monday night football game between New England and Buffalo I'll confirm it. You will be outraged. Roger Federer, the number one favorite to win the US Open, who just so happens to have fifteen Grand Slam titles, sixty-one Singles tournament titles, seven Doubles tournament titles, and one Olympic Gold Medal in the 2008 Bejing Games used foul language and threatened the Center Court Judge, not a line judge, during the Finals Match. Apparently Roger Federer became upset at the judge because he felt the judge took too long to allow Federer's opponent Del Potro, from Argentina, to challenge a call. Federer said to the Center Court Judge, "Naw, naw, naw it's too late." The Center Court Judge replies, "Who are you talking too like that?" Federer continues, "C'mon man. I wasn't allowed to challenge like that after two seconds. This guy takes like ten. Do you have any rules in there or what?" The tone of Federer's next retort to the Center Court Judge implies the judge held up his hand in a motion to stop Federer from talking for Federer said, "Don't show me your hand, okay." The Center Court Judge tells him to be quiet. He replies, "Don't tell me to be quiet. When I want to talk I'll talk. Alright?" Then he begins to use foul language and tells the Center Court Judge, "I don't give a sh-- what you said. I just said he took way too long. Don't tell me the fu--ing rules. I wasn't allowed to challenge like that." Can you believe this? And as the Center Court Judge is trying to explain himself to Federer he replies, "Don't fu--cking talk to me." So "let's get right to the point. [Roger Federer] should be fined heavily and suspended for a while from the pro tennis tour".........I'm sure that would be your point of view on this incident. Please tell me if you think differently. Roger Federer should be held to the same high standard that you, sir, held Serena Williams to. Please tell me if you will. I would really like to know being that you put your email address just below your Sunday morning sermon in the LA Times newspaper entitled "Serena Acts Outrageously". The language Federer used with the Center Court Judge was disrespectful, offensive, and unacceptable. Being that Federer is a world champion and should know better, he lacked discrestion and wisdom as it relates to his battle with the Center Court Judge. But back up. What is Federer doing battling with a Center Court Judge and why is he using foul and threatening language towards him? Clearly his contribution to the sport of tennis has given him a pass to freely express to a Center Court Judge how he truly feels about a decision he has made without fear of consequence. It only makes one speculate whether or not the reason Federer has such freedom is because he knows nothing will happen to him. As I witnessed this ugly incident I was sure and absolute that tournament referee Brian Earley would come storming onto the court to straighten things out and get things in proper order. But he never showed. Why is it, sir, that Serena does not have that same freedom to express herself without fear of consequence? She too has contributed much to the sport of tennis and has won many Grand Slam titles, singles and doubles tournament titles, and an Olympic Gold Medal. But yet she gets tried in the media. Sir, you do understand what that means, right? If not let me explain. There was no coverage of Federer's outright disrespect of the Center Court Judge after the highlights on both ESPNEWS or SportsCenter. Federer was not ask to explain himself as to why he chose to use foul language to a Center Court Judge. The interrogation of Federer's disrespectful actions was not conducted by the press and televised for the world to see. Although he used threatening language to the Center Court Judge he has not been threatened to be fined or sanctioned by any of the Tennis commentators who cover the US Open. To be quite frank, no one of the media seemed to have an issue with how Roger Federer handled the Center Court Judge. If one is listening very closely it is no surprise that one may conclude that the media, who controls public opinion, wants the public to believe along with Roger Federer that there is absolutely nothing wrong in the manner in which he spoke to the Center Court Judge. But there is something terribly wrong in the manner in which Serena Williams spoke to the line judge. After Venus and Serena won the US Open Womens Double's Championship why was Serena still pressed to answer questions about her actions the night before? Why was she not allowed to have her moment with her Big Sister and enjoy her victory without having to bring up her mistake? Will you, sir, identify and call out this double standard in your next column? I know you are brewing up something spectacular because you are a very righteous man who loves the game of tennis and stands up and defends it at all costs when you witness the game being disrespected. I am interested to see if you will again question the guts of the "normally soft-on-discipline sport of tennis". Will you be quick to compare Federer to an Oregon football player as you did Serena? I'm sure you too agree that Roger Federer made a fool of himself Monday night on national television. Please tell me, sir, if you think differently. Will you compare Federer's tirade to those of McEnroe's in which you describe McEnroe's tirades to be "body language and direct verbiage that was threatening and ugly." You, sir, were very swift in your judgment with Serena's expression and said her's went well beyond those of McEnroe's. How swift will you be with your judgment of Federer's. Ooh I can't wait! Will you call Federer's incident "an embarrassment to a sport that has made good strides recently in expanding its niche"? I wonder what kind of role model Federer makes for all of the children benefiting from all of those "grass-roots" programs sponsored by the U.S. Tennis Association. Is it one of bad language? According to you Serena does. What about Roger? Will you comment on what type of roll model he makes as it relates to his outbursts? I cant wait to see. Being that I so thoroughly enjoyed your Sunday sermon I thought I would suggest the title of your next one. Remember it's just merely a suggestion. It doesn't matter if you use it or not. I want you to know that I, and many others will be watching how you handle this abomination to tennis. I loved so much how you ended your Sunday sermon that I want to quote you. "The public that watched this ugly farce will be watching closely now. It will see if tennis pretends that this somehow wasn't as outrageous as it clearly was, and that it didn't wipe out years of image-building in the sport. If it goes without being addressed, then tennis is just telling us it cares only about our ticket money and us in front of the television set, but not our respect, loyalty or admiration. Best guess? Tennis will pretend this was all a Las Vegas card game and let it ride." I tend to agree with you.
Although many of us can say that was wrong and that is something I would never do, we really don't know until we are in that situation. We can only hope that we wouldn't and if we do, own up to it, as you did and learn from it which you said you would. May you learn from this situation and become a better person because of it.
Hi Serena, I watched evey minute of all of your matches. I was upset too, but I am so proud of you for your apology to the USTA and most of all, to us, your fans.
William Rochester Jr. wrote ... "It only makes one speculate whether or not the reason Federer has such freedom is because he knows nothing will happen to him." …. You must have missed the news reports that Federer was fined (as were others at the US Open) for swearing. He did use inappropriate language on the court. He was fined. He did not threaten the chair umpire. Federer SAT in his chair … he didn’t go into a rage as Serena did … as she shoved her racquet at the linesperson, and threatened to shove a tennis ball down her throat.
SERENA DID NOT THREATEN THE LINESWOMAN:"I feel like shoving this freaking ball down your throat..." where her exact words!!! Some people need to get their facts straight; furthermore, it does not matter whether Federer was sitting down or standing up- he used the F bomb as well as S**t.
Well, after some time, now it's my turn. It's easy for us, in the comfort of our rooms, typing on our PCs claiming that Serena's apology wasn't sincere. It's easy to dismiss her and to not give her another chance, when perhaps we ourselves have been given second chances for our own infractions, though they may not be as publicized as Serena's. It's easy to pass final judgment on her as if to assume that she can't ever pull herself up from this messy situation. Well, Serena can pull herself up. Serena's given an apology. Just like we've done in our own lives.
Raymond Ancog: Maybe you had threatened to shove a tennis ball down someone's throat in the past but I haven't. What Williams did is called, 'Menacing in the third degree is a class B misdemeanor.” According to the penal code of the state of New York, Williams not only broke the rules of the game but also the laws of New York: “Section 120.15 Menacing in the third degree A person is guilty of menacing in the third degree when, by physical menace, he or she intentionally places or attempts to place another person in fear of death, imminent serious physical injury or physical injury." Lawbreaking has consequences and an apology is not quite the right consequence. Usually, someone subjected to such violent and vulgar tirade is emotionally harmed and may need counseling. How does an apology help with that? For those who may not understand anatomy and physiology all that well, shoving a tennis ball down someone's throat will make it very difficult to survive. Yes, indeed, Williams did threaten to kill the lineswoman and any playing around with semantics isn't going to change the fact that the lineswoman was assaulted.
Monika Shelton: SERENA DID THREATEN THE LINESWOMAN It's well recorded and played throughout the media that it was: "I swear to God I'll f***ing take this ball and shove it down your f***ing throat! Do you hear me? I swear to God. You better be glad--you better be f***ing glad that I'm not, I swear." Swearing? Isn't that what a self-professed Christian should not do? Furthermore, give me break. Federer may have used the F bomb but he did not threaten the life of other while using it. That is the point. Uttering that she will kill someone is crossing the line, F bomb or no F bomb. Some people should get their logic straight.
Mike Corey, I believe you left out the most important element of assault...the reasonable person standard. Would a reasonable person in the same or similar circumstances feel that imminent harm would come to them? If I was in the shoes of that lineswoman, I would not truly believe that Serena was going to shove a ball down my throat on Arthur Ash Stadium during the women's semi final match broadcast on live TV. Would you?
Janet Dancey: It is so easy to spout off a legal point without fully understanding it, isn't it? Are you positing that a large violent self-centered individual, who had smashed her tennis racquet to smithereens earlier, is in the same state of mind as a reasonable person and therefore the lineswoman is unreasonable for thinking otherwise about the physical threats directed at her? You must know that the reasonable person standard is not applied independent of the available facts of the circumstances. In 1993 Monica Seles was stabbed in the back with a steak knife on live TV during a tennis match. Life threatening incidents are not beyond the shadow of reality just because of the presence of live TV. A reasonable person should feel threatened when confronted by a raving lunatic. An unreasonable person would just sit there and be stupidly amused.
Mike Corey, you are not applying the standard appropriately. And I do fully understand it as I am a lawyer. There is a big difference between a crazy Graf FAN and a professional tennis player who lost her cool. Anyway, there must be reason why Serena was not brought up on assault charges likely because any DA knows they couldn't make the case. You are an unreasonable person.
Mike Corey: The fact that Serena CLEARLY stated that "...you better be freaking glad that I don't do that..." voids any notion that she would actually carry out her former words. The fact that she BROKE HER RACKET had nothing to do with why she went off on the lineswoman. These are two different incidents that happened at different times in the match!!! You and others have a really bad habit of making a STRAWMAN argument. Stick to the facts and stop overexaggerating on every little detail to make your point!!
Dear Serena. I have been a fan of yours since you won the US Open back in 1999. I first watch Vee lose to Martina and then you beat Martina so i ended up liking you both. I just watched the Youtube video of you and Jennifer Capriati (US Open 2004) and thought you handled yourself really nicely but when the stuff happened this time around, you weren't going to stand for it, and good on you. I feel as though you have been robbed at the chance for two US Opens, and one french for that matter (Justine) and am glad that you have kicked butt in my home slam the Aussie Open four times. I will be buying tickets again and will be supporting and cheering for you as loud as possible. I watched you win the 2005 and 2009 titles and that match vs. Sharapova in the semis of 2005 was the most amazing experience ever. Hopefully, the matches don't get that close and you kick butt. Always a fan, Cameron.
This is a Serena fan site so if you don't have nice things to say about her, just don't write them, thankyou. I don't want to read it.
Hi Serena, I am a proud fan of yours and so is my three year old son. He has already shown great interest in tennis and has great skills. we watched the semi finals and the only thing we were disappointed about is the fact that u did not win. We were praying for u. I know u might be feeling like u let us down but being a sportsman myself i know how how intense and emotional it could get as it gets down to the wire. So for me, no apology is necessary. My only concern is that I read online that the association was threatening to suspend u from all future grandslams. But otherwise, we are still proud of u and my son wishes desperately that he could meet u or talk to u one day. We love u and remain very very proud of u and Venus. Keep kickin' their butts!
Awww S, we forgive you, all is forgiven. We all are not perfect and we will and have made mistakes, but as long as you learn and move on from it, leaving it in the past, and looking toward the future, everything else will fall in place for you my sista. I know you emotions get the best of you sometimes and you are competitive and I am like that as well. so my brothers and sister have told me (LOL). You are not in this alone. As I have gotten older (26 yrs) I have learned to be more mellow and cool and calm and know I have learned not to take a loss personally, but as long as you know that you tried your best with all your heart and might, then you will not lose too many times. If you do lose at times and when you win, be humble regardless of the outcome which I know you are S. We love you and be safe and careful and stop getting injured too (LOL) :-) xoxox JL and Family
Hi Serena. I hope you're not letting the negative comments get to you. The people who are calling you ungracious and claim that you have no class obviously don't know the meaning of those terms because it takes GRACE and CLASS to admit to one's mistakes - which is exactly what you have done by apologising. You ARE gracious and you ARE a CLASS act. The haters need to grow up and realise that we all make mistakes in life and that the game of tennis can sometimes bring out erratic, unintentional behaviour. Just remember this - you don't need to impress anyone in life but yourself! Forget what the haters say cause at the end of the day they aren't helping you out and they aren't exactly being classy themselves. Stay strong and keep believing in you. Your true fans are here for you and they do understand your situation. And they also understand that the linesperson should NOT have made that call from such a distance. It was not clear the you committed a foot fault and I believe you would've won the match if it wasn't for that ridiculous call. You've done it so many times and only your true fans know this. Now, head held high and keep slammin' ;) xx
Hi Serena. I hope you're not letting the negative comments get to you. The people who are calling you ungracious and claim that you have no class obviously don't know the meaning of those terms because it takes GRACE and CLASS to admit to one's mistakes - which is exactly what you have done by apologising. You ARE gracious and you ARE a CLASS act. The haters need to grow up and realise that we all make mistakes in life and that the game of tennis can sometimes bring out erratic, unintentional behaviour. Just remember this - you don't need to impress anyone in life but yourself! Forget what the haters say cause at the end of the day they aren't helping you out and they aren't exactly being classy themselves. Stay strong and keep believing in you. Your true fans are here for you and they do understand your situation. And they also understand that the linesperson should NOT have made that call from such a distance. It was not clear the you committed a foot fault and I believe you would've won the match if it wasn't for that ridiculous call. You've done it so many times and only your true fans know this. Now, head held high and keep slammin' ;) xx
Stay focused YOungsta, continue to accentuate the Positive. God has allowed you to be where you are. STay positive and free. Cast your cares and worries upon the LORD!!!