by Napoleon Broughton

Created on: October 04, 2009   Last Updated: October 06, 2009

A few weeks ago, I contemplated writing a piece on Venus Williams and her recent inability to perform in major tournaments at the level that we have become accustomed to. Time passes, and new events unfold. I introduce to you Serena Williams, the younger sibling of the above mentioned athlete. Both players have a lot to consider at this point in their careers. How they proceed from this point will ultimately determine their legacy.

Serena Williams: If you haven't noticed, maybe you should. Serena Williams is a selfish and disrespectful tennis player. This is a tough acknowledgement for me given my love and admiration for the player. As the world watched, Serena recently contested a call by a lines official at the US Open in an irate and totally disrespectful fashion. This is not like Serena.

If you believe that one, you obviously haven't been watching her career and the player too closely. Observe the personality. Serena expects to win, but she doesn't handle adversity very well when she fails. Have you noticed that Serena never attends a match played by Venus when she has been ousted from a tournament in an earlier round?

It takes a big person to support someone else when you fail. The athletes who are able to accept defeat with dignity and pride are the true champions.

In a previous lifetime, John McEnroe argued every call. John believed that all officials were incompetent. He must have. He argued during every match. Serena's beef is that the victory should be served up to her even if she is not at her best to deliver such an outcome. Professional sports has to be about the person. It's not about the 11 Grand Slam Titles that Serena has won.

It's not about the number of commercial endorsements she has. All of that is impressive, but what I see now is disturbing. I am disenchanted by her disrespectful, conceited attitude. There is also an obvious lack of acknowledgement being exhibited by Serena. Acknowledge that your sister is playing by being present during her important matches. This is not to say that Serena is not thankful for her accomplishments. Don't confuse the two.

The key is to ensure that you don't magnify the importance of your success at the expense of diminishing your appreciation for what other athletes can and have accomplished. As she often expresses, she is very thankful to Jehovah. That acknowledgement and appreciation will have to be relayed not only on the tennis court but also in every day life. Remember, your Jehovah is watching!

Venus

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