SERENA WILLIAMS OUT OF THE WTA TOURNAMENT AND FINED

Former world number one Serena Williams has been fined $10,500 dollars for her abusive behavior on Saturday at the US Open.

Late Sunday, Sony Ericsson WTA Tour CEO Stacey Allaster issued a statement in support of the United States Tennis Association’s decision.

“Serena Williams’ conduct last night was inappropriate and unprofessional,” said Allaster in the release issued by the Tour. “No matter what the circumstances, no player should be allowed to engage in such behavior without suffering consequences. I have spoken with the USTA about this matter and I agree with the action they have taken.”

Pursuant to the Grand Slam Rule Book, the USTA fined Serena the maximum penalty of $10,000 for unsportsmanlike conduct and $500 for racquet abuse.

Tennis’ governing bodies have also launched an investigation to determine whether Serena’s actions warrant consideration as a major offense, which could result in additional penalties.