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.
