Serena Williams fined, faces possible suspension for tirade

Newsday reports: Serena Williams' tirade against a lineswoman who called her for a foot fault Saturday night in her semifinal match against Kim Clijsters may have gotten her into deep trouble beyond the penalty point assessed that cost her the match.

Early last evening the USTA announced that it had fined Williams the maximum $10,000 for a profane tirade. But that wasn't the end of it.

According to a news release, the USTA said: "The Grand Slam Rule Book also allows for an investigation to be conducted by the Grand Slam Committee Investigator if the behavior of Ms. Williams warrants consideration as a Major Offense for which additional penalties can be imposed. This investigation has now begun."

This opens the way for a possible suspension after the Open and a potential fine of $250,000 by the Grand Slam Committee.

The women's tour also issued a statement condemning Williams' actions.

"Serena Williams' conduct last night was inappropriate and unprofessional,'' WTA chairman Stacy Allaster said. "No matter what the circumstances, no player should be allowed to engage in such behavior without suffering consequences. I have spoken to the USTA about this matter and I agree with the action they have taken."

Williams also issued a statement that said in part: "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... "

More on what happened here.

Comments

aaroncrowe said…
That is terrible, why did she do that? I know it might have been a mistake, but com’on…
September 14, 2009 at 6:08 PM
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