In class we discussed the situation with Serena and Venus Williams. In the 2001 Indian Wells tournament Venus Williams had to withdrawal from her semifinals match with her sister Serena Williams. When Venus Williams and her father showed up to Serena’s Championship match they were accompanied with some boos and probably some other negative comments. They just shrugged them off and went on to watch the match. During the match Serena was booed and also cheered when she double faulted.
Indian Wells is close to where Serena and Venus grew up, I believe. Fans who paid for the semifinals match between Serena and Venus probably paid high dollar for the tickets. Some fans were upset and displayed their frustration with boos during the championship match. Since this incident, the Williams’ sisters have decided not to go to Indian Wells anymore.
To me this is ridiculous, as professional athletes they should be able to get past the boos and other negative comments. Yes, I’m sure there were some racist comments which should never happen, but they should get past it. This can happen to any profession athlete anywhere in the world. Part of the job of a professional athlete, is to act like a professional. Which in this case, the Williams’ sisters did not.
I have to strongly disagree with you when you say that the Williams sisters were not acting like professionals. Unfortunately, they have been held to a different standard than other (mostly white) athletes. I am guessing that you had not read the chapter by Serena before you wrote this entry, because I think you might have a somewhat different perspective if you did.
ReplyDeleteI also disagree. Money is not everything. Sometimes you have to stand up for what you believe in. I understand the fans were disappointed that the Williams sisters weren't playing each other and paid good money, but that still was no reason for racial slurs. I also disagreed with what you said during your presentation about you not liking Richard Williams putting up his fist for the black power sign. I think it showed strength and Serena was very professional. She kept her cool and won the match despite the racism.
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