Serena Willams has incurred a $2000 fine for her outburst against the umpire during the 2011 US Open final against Samantha Stosur.
The incident occurred when Williams looked to have saved a break point and exclaimed ‘Come on!’ before Stosur had a chance to get the ball back.
The United States Tennis Association(USTA) announced the fine, stating that it aligns with penalties for similar offenses in Grand Slam events. The fine was contributed to the Grand Slam Development Fund, supporting tennis programs worldwide.
During the match, Williams questioned the umpire, Eva Asderaski, about past incidents and accused her of bias. Despite the verbal abuse, the Grand Slam committee Director determined that William’s conduct, while inappropriate, did not constitute a major offense under the Grand Slam code of conduct.
In the second set, after losing a point and the game, Williams continued her criticism of Asderaki during a break, expressing dissatisfaction with her officiating. Stosur ultimately won the final with a score of 6-2, 6-3.
Following the match Williams expressed uncertainty about her exact words during the incident, due to the intensity of the match. She received a runners-up prize money of $1.4 million and mentioned the intense focus required during such crucial moments.
“I don’t even remember what I said, it was just so intense out there. It’s the final for me, and I was just – I have to go – I guess I’ll see it on YouTube. I don’t know. I was just in the zone. I think everyone, when they play, they kind of zone out kinda thing. I don’t know, I’ll see it later, I’m sure.”
-Serena Williams in the post match interview
Dominic Thiem’s press conference clash with Serena Williams raises eyebrows
Dominic Theim who was seeded fourth at the 2019 Roland Garros was involved in an unexpected moment during his post-match press conference. Despite struggling to reach the round of 16, he was abruptly removed from the main interview room to make way for Serena Williams, who suffered an unexpected defeat in the third round.
Thiem, expressed his frustration at the decision, questioning the logic behind it stating:
“I don’t really get it, seriously. I mean what the hell? It’s a joke. What’s my point of that? I have to leave the room because she’s coming.”
-Dominic Thiem at the post match press conference
A displeased Thiem decided to cut his interview short with a remark:
“Well I’ll also leave then. I’m not standing around. I can also do whatever I want.”
-Dominic Thiem at the post match press conference
