Sep 14, 2009 5:18 pm US/Eastern
Williams Apologizes Again; Some Question Sexism
FLUSHING, N.Y. (CBS) ―
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Serena Williams talks to U.S. Open head referee Brian Earley after being penalized in her match against Kim Clijsters from Belgium during their Women's Semi-Final US Open match at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center Sept. 12, 2009
Tim A. Clary/Getty Images
More than 36 hours after her controversial tirade, Serena Williams said Monday afternoon she sincerely apologized for what she calls her "inappropriate outburst" at the US Open.
"I want to sincerely apologize FIRST to the lines woman, Kim Clijsters, the USTA and mostly tennis fans everywhere for my inappropriate outburst," Williams' latest statement said. "I'm a woman of great pride, faith and integrity, and I admit when I'm wrong.
"I need to make it clear to all young people that I handled myself inappropriately and it's not the way to act -- win or lose, good call or bad call in any sport, in any manner. I like to lead by example. We all learn from experiences both good and bad, I will learn and grow from this, and be a better person as a result."
About 90 minutes before their double final was to begin, Williams and her big sister Venus were out on the practice courts turning heads and attracting crowds. Their parents observed carefully as nearby, tournament referee Brian Earley made his way through the gate.
Forgivable? Inexcusable? Sexis? Racist? A double standard? Tennis fans from all over the world have strong and opposing reactions to Williams' meltdown Saturday.
"I'm surprised of her outburst. She should be penalized," one fan told CBS 2.
"I think she owes an official apology to the lineswoman," said another.
That official apology did come Monday afternoon. Williams said she was wrong for her threatening gestures and profanity-laced tirade. She addressed her fans again following her doubles championship victory.
"I'd like to thank my fans for supporting me through everything," she said.
She was assessed a code violation for unsportsmanlike conduct Saturday night, following the bizarre and improbable spectacle. Because she had been warned earlier about smashing her racquet, the code violation cost her match point to Kim Clijsters.
Williams later said she handled the situation poorly.
Tennis fans Beverly Brogdon and Tracy Johnson say the USTA reaction seemed sexist, even racist. They point to Jimmy Connors, John McEnroe and Ilie Năstase – all white male tennis greats known for their outbursts.
"Is it a difference of men versus women, or is it a difference unfortunately an African American young woman?" asked Johnson.
Williams be in further trouble, with a potential USTA investigation, possible suspension, fines of $250 thousand, or even a loss of endorsements are all looming.
So far she has been fined $10,000 for unsportsmanlike conduct and another $500 for racquet abuse.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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