In 2015, The New York Times published an article suggesting Serena Williams' competitors could all emulate her physique but they choose not to. Agnieszka Radwanska's spokeswoman told The Times, "It's our decision to keep Radwanska as the smallest player in the top 10. Because, first of all she's a woman, and she wants to be a woman."
According to this statement, Serena is not a woman.
Serena is tested for banned performance-enhancing drugs significantly more than any male or female tennis player. Many analysts say the reason is unclear, but I don't think it is.
Look at her body. Her "unfeminine" body. Women are not supposed to appear that strong. Women are especially not supposed to appear that strong after giving birth. People try to undermine her unprecedented strength with every chance they get. They say she must be on steroids. Even worse, some people suggest she's secretly a man.
At the 2018 French Open, Serena wore a head to toe catsuit. The outfit was banned.
At the 2018 US Open, Alizé Cornet received a code violation for changing her shirt in between games. Male tennis players frequently sit shirtless for minutes at a time and never receive code violations.
And then there was the incident that reached every newspaper throughout the country. Controversy erupted during the US Open Finals in Arthur Ashe Stadium.
The chair umpire made the unprecedented call against illegal coaching for Serena Williams. A call that infuriated her past many viewers' understanding. To Serena, the chair umpire was calling her a cheater. She was trying to win this match in honor of her daughter.
Serena later smashed a racket, racked up a point penalty, and called the umpire a “thief.” The remark of, "You're a thief" prompted the chair umpire to give a crucial game away to Serena's opponent. Male tennis players often address umpires with worse language and never receive even a warning.
Serena is policed for her black body. But she's policed for her female body too.
As she said in her press conference following the match,
"The fact that I have to go through this is just an example for the next person that has emotions and wants to express themselves and wants to be a strong woman. They're going to be allowed to do that because of today. Maybe it didn't work out for me but it's going to work out for the next person."
I didn't know that Serena get drug tested more than anyone and that took me aback. I think it is completely bizarre that they are doing it. It is almost like they are trying to catch her, when they're is nothing to catch, for a good headline, "Serena only won the grand-slam because of drugs" or something crazy like that instead of giving her credit for her skill and hard work. I liked you title, good job!
ReplyDeleteThis is very interesting and enlightening. I hadn't realized that Serena got drug tested that often. It actually makes me obtain a new level of respect of her, she is so strong. Obviously physically, but also mentally. I can only imagine having people doubt your integrity and work ethic based on your body. Good job! I really liked the point you brought to light!
ReplyDeleteI think strong women are often stereotyped as "unfeminine" whether they are extremely athletic or smart. I find that a lot of times, in order to confront a feeling of being different, women downplay their strengths to fit in. It is enlightening to see Serena take a stand against the odds stacked against her. At this point in her career, she no longer has to prove herself as a worthy tennis player because her records speak for themselves. This really gives her an opportunity to push the boundaries of traditional gender stereotypes. I like your take on this subject; Serena's female body is dangerous!
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