Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova are trading words ahead of the tournament in London following a Rolling Stone profile of Serena that was posted on June 18, 2013.
In the article, Serena was asked about the Steubenville, Ohio, sexual assault case, in which two high school football players were convicted. Her comments about the teenage victim drew heavy criticism from people who felt they placed blame on the girl. Serena issued an apology the next day, saying she was deeply sorry for what was written, that the remarks were insensitive and hurtful, and that she would never say or suggest the girl was to blame.
The profile also included remarks about Maria. According to the article, Serena described a top five player who is now in love as boring and said she would not be invited to the cool parties. The writer identified that player as Maria.
Maria answered at her news conference on Saturday, June 22. She said she was sad to hear what Serena said about the Steubenville case and that Serena should talk about her accomplishments and achievements instead of stirring up controversy. She added that if Serena wants to talk about something personal, she could talk about her own relationship, which Maria described as involving a boyfriend who is married, getting a divorce and has kids.
Serena has not publicly responded to Maria’s comments. Her pre tournament news conference is scheduled for later this weekend.
