Nike Inc. issued a public statement backing Serena William's following her outburst at the U.S. Open. Wrote Derek Kent, Nike spokesman, in an e-mail, “Serena has publicly apologized and has stated she let her emotions get the best of her. Nike stands behind Serena and looks forward to her outstanding career continuing.”
Nike has sponsored the tennis star since 2003.
The 11-time Grand Slam singles champion, who initially declined to apologize while saying she acted inappropriately, on Monday expanded on her comments in a statement released by the U.S. Tennis Association.
“I want to sincerely apologize first to the lineswoman, Kim Clijsters, the USTA and mostly tennis fans everywhere for my inappropriate outburst,” she said. “I’m a woman of great pride, faith and integrity, and I admit when I’m wrong. I need to make it clear to all young people that I handled myself inappropriately and it’s not the way to act — win or lose, good call or bad call in any sport, in any manner.”
Williams, 27, was fined the on-site maximum $10,000 for unsportsmanlike conduct after berating a line judge as well as $500 for breaking her racket, the USTA said yesterday. The Grand Slam Committee will conduct an investigation into whether her behavior “warrants consideration as a major offense for which additional penalties can be imposed.”
The actions caused many to wonder if sponsors would drop Williams, prompting Nike's comment. William's 'U.S. Open attire included a Nike Inc. T- shirt that read, “Can’t Spell Dynasty Without Nasty!.”
Other sponsors, including Oreo, Amer Sports' Wilson, Hewlett-Packard, and Gatorade have not commented on the situation.
