In a new essay penned by Williams herself,
the 37-year-old tennis pro opened up
about her outburst during the 2018 U.S. Open final. The incident was heavily publicized and ultimately
overshadowed the victory of her opponent, Naomi Osaka. Looking back, Williams admitted
her altercation with the umpire caused
her an incredible amount of stress. As time passed, she questioned what she
could have “done better” and if she was
“wrong to stand up” for herself. Serena then revealed that she eventually
wrote a letter to Osaka, saying it was the
“only one way for [her] to move forward.” When Osaka’s reply encouraged her
to “continue trailblazing,” Williams realized
she had nothing to be ashamed of.