Serena's post match interview set off a media feeding frenzy but her comments were not very different from remarks she usually makes.
My buddy Stuart noted that Serena’s classless behavior took place at Ashe Stadium, the venue named for Arthur Ashe, the epitome of class and one of the game’s consummate gentlemen. Indeed, Serena’s demeanor was in sharp contrast with the one Ashe displayed during his precedent-setting career.
On Day-1 of the US Open, Althea Gibson, another class act, was celebrated along with a number of African American women who have distinguished themselves in a variety of arenas. One could argue that a considerable measure of the public relations gains acquired that night were lost in the maelstrom of press critique spawned by Serena’s post-match interview.
Serena’s public chastisement for her boorish behavior was well-earned, but such behavior from Serena is not uncharacteristic. For some time now, I have been unimpressed with Serena’s bravado and arrogant disregard for the skills and sentiments of her fellow players. She typically has been dismissive whether she wins or loses, although a bit more gracious when she wins.
Perhaps her Australian Open win deluded Serena into thinking that she really is the best player in the world. Yet, Justine Henin is more dominant on the women’s tour than Roger Federer is on the men’s. Henin is 43 - 4 with six (6) titles in 10 tourneys, and Federer is 45 - 6 with five (5) titles in 11 tourneys. Serena the best?
I can understand Serena’s frustration at being trounced by the best player in the world three times in three consecutive Grand Slams; especially since Henin was absent from the only Grand Slam Serena won this year. Sometimes reality is a bitter pill to swallow, and unfortunately Serena regurgitated big time at her press conference. As in most families, big sis Venus will now have to clean up after her. Game, set, and match….
