Serena Williams’ gifted brat US Open outburst had nothing to do with feminism

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Win or lose, Roger Federer of Switzerland is a complete gentleman both on and off the tennis courts. Photo: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports/Reuters

Published: 6:02am, 16 Sep 2018Updated: 6:02am, 16 Sep 2018

I refer to your report on the US Open final (“Serena Williams blasts umpire as ‘liar and a thief’ in historic loss to Japan’s Naomi Osaka”, September 9) and the letter from Paul Chiu (“Umpire who upset Serena Williams committed a double fault”, September 12).

Williams is an accomplished, respected tennis player and star. However, her conduct on the court last Saturday was less than exemplary.

Williams was clearly at fault. Her coach was tutoring her, even if she missed the tutorial, she did smash her racket in frustration and nobody can ever call an umpire a “thief” and “liar”. You can disagree with the umpire, lodge a complaint, even protest and seek redress. However, you cannot call the umpire names in the presence of a live global audience. The umpire is merely doing his job. Just because a player is an international star does not give them the right to abuse less-known match officials.

Naomi Osaka (left) pulls her visor down over her tearful face, as fans boo during the awards ceremony after she beat Serena Williams in the US Open final. Photo: AFP

Williams’ unsporting tantrum has overshadowed the achievement of the 20-year old Japanese player, Naomi Osaka. Osaka’s moment of glory was eclipsed by Williams’ outburst. Imagine, Osaka actually apologised to the crowd for winning the match. How surreal could it get for a winner?