Serena William was recently fined $82,500. for her verbal hostility against a tennis official’s ruling during the U.S. Open this summer, the largest amount ever in tennis history. Williams already paid 10K, but it was determined that she violated a “major offense” rule for “aggravated behavior”. If Williams’ tongue slips again, she could be fined up to $175,000 and barred from the following U.S. Open.
I love tennis too much to ignore this tidbit, as Serena is a great athlete. So let’s rewind back in tennis history and remember how John McEnroe faired in the sportsmanship category – poorly, to say the least. John, as popular as he was for his fast tactics and tremendous footwork, speed and angle on the courts, he was also a pouting, ill-tempered and bad mouthed boy who lived through a several disqualifications and fines. However, his behavior was often over-looked and laughed off, as John was adored by his fans and his violent tantrums was part of the package… How accepting. Can you imagine if Chris Evert or Martina behaved in such fashion? They would never have had a second chance, period.
Although I cannot condone Serena’s behavior and words during the U.S. Open, if the tables were turned and John spewed the same words at a male tennis official, it wouldn’t sound as harsh to the viewers and his punishment would be mild, milder than what’s in store for Serena.
So let’s get one thing clear here… What we are observing is change in female evolution, as competitiveness, aggression and dominance is more pronounced in female sports. However, we have not come to terms with this transition. Sooner than later, we need to recognize these females as human athletes, like male athletes, and not degrade or illegitimatize their athletic prowess because of their gender.