Fans on social media have slammed a decision to ban the catsuit worn by US tennis star Serena Williams as part of changes to the dress code at the French Open.
One of the reasons behind Serena’s decision to wear that suit was that it was specifically made to prevent blood clots in her body. Serena had almost died due to haematoma — or swelling of clotted blood in her abdomen during the birth of her child.
“I’ve been wearing pants, in general, a lot when I play so I can keep the blood circulation going. It’s a fun suit, but it’s also functional so I can be able to play without problems,” she had said.
However, it looks like her words fell to deaf ears as Bernard Giudicelli, the French Tennis Federation President, singled out Serena’s dress which she wore at the tournament in May, in an interview with Tennis Magazine. He went on to say that “certain limits” would be imposed on player’s uniforms going forward.
“I think that, sometimes, we’ve gone too far,” he said. “[The catsuit] will no longer be accepted. One must respect the game and place.”
Not surprisingly, the comment from Giudicelli has caused quite a stir on the social media. The users have not only slammed the statement but have also attributed the decision to racism, sexism and ignorance. Some have also questioned the wisdom in banning an outfit which was specially designed for health reasons.
Here are some reactions from the social media users:
This sexist, racist provincialism directed against Serena is very simply resolved. American sports media should and can immediately stop recognizing the French Open as part of the tennis “Grand Slam.” And players of both genders should decline to play. https://t.co/fEWtvZSCEd
— Keith Olbermann (@KeithOlbermann) August 25, 2018
https://twitter.com/RafiDAngelo/status/1033008120384118784?
French Open is changing its dress code, and the changes will prevent Serena from wearing her super hero suit. Reason given: “One must respect the game.” I am flabbergasted. https://t.co/t2Y5P3qfbx pic.twitter.com/VYYXyUXFvm
— Phillip Barnett (@regularbarnett) August 24, 2018
When your flyness blows their mind, they ban it. #SerenaWilliams #GOAT #TooFly https://t.co/I6O4GWw5Op
— Alexis De La Cruz (@alexisdlc11) August 24, 2018
Hi @rolandgarros! You can know how much @serenawilliams "respects the game" by remembering that she has won 23 grand slams! You need to respect athletes and the #Tennis world by changing your sexist/sexualized remarks.
And #SerenaWilliams, YOU LOOK LIKE A WARRIOR QUEEN. pic.twitter.com/3ETUebJRDF
— Amir Ashour أمير عاشور (@amirashour_) August 24, 2018
Having had multiple pulmonary embolisms, Serena Williams is not allowed to use a specially designed black catsuit that helps prevents blood clots from developing in the legs. Because the French Open doesn’t like how it looks. That’s racist, sexist, and dangerous.
— Eugene Gu, MD (@eugenegu) August 24, 2018
Yeah, I'm pretty sure Serena Williams shows "respect" for the game by playing it better than, you know, everyone ever.
— Jesse Wente (@jessewente) August 25, 2018
Anne White wore a catsuit in 1985.
Serena Williams is not allowed to wear one in 2019. pic.twitter.com/maSMckXo26
— Simon Hedlin (@simonhedlin) August 25, 2018
https://twitter.com/molly_knight/status/1033117450814902272?
Serena is one of the finest tennis players of all time. She holds the most Grand Slam titles in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles combined among active players. Her 39 major titles puts her joint-third on the all-time list and second in the Open Era: 23 in singles, 14 in women’s doubles, and two in mixed doubles