Serena Williams Issues Apology Statement
A Serena Williams statement put out by the USTA on Sunday night:
ADHEREL
“Last night everyone could truly see the passion I have for my job. Now that I have had time to gain my composure, I can see that while I don’t agree with the unfair line call, in the heat of battle I let my passion and emotion get the better of me and as a result handled the situation poorly. I would like to thank my fans and supporters for understanding that I am human and I look forward to continuing the journey, both professionally and personally, with you all as I move forward and grow from this experience.”
Williams was given a point penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct after the 11-time Slam champ went off on a verbal tirade against a lineswoman who call a footfault on her at 15-30, 5-6 in the second set. After the call the score changed to 15-40 giving Kim Clijsters two match points. Once the chair umpire heard Serena’s remarks she made to the lineswoman a code violation unsportsmanlike conduct point penalty was called and the match ended.
The US Open later issued their own statement:
“Pursuant to the Grand Slam Rule Book, the maximum permissible on-site fine of $10,000 has been levied for Unsportsmanlike Conduct against Serena Williams for her on-court behavior during the women’s singles semifinal match against Kim Clijsters on Saturday, September 12, 2009. Ms. Williams also will be fined $500 for racquet abuse which took place at the end of the first set of the same match. In total, Ms. Williams’ on-site fine is $10,500.
“The Grand Slam Rule Book also allows for an investigation to be conducted by the Grand Slam Committee Administrator to determine if the behavior of Ms. Williams warrants consideration as a Major Offence for which additional penalties can be imposed. This investigation has now begun.”
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