Why did Serena Williams and Venus Williams boycott Indian Wells for over a decade? Inside the 2001 controversy
In 2001, Venus Williams withdrew from her semifinal at Indian Wells, leading to boos and alleged racist remarks toward the Williams family. Serena Williams was jeered during the final but still won. Both sisters boycotted the event for over a decade. Serena returned in 2015, Venus in 2016, closing one of tennis’ most painful chapters.
In 2001, Venus Williams withdrew from her semifinal at Indian Wells, leading to boos and alleged racist remarks toward the Williams family. Serena Williams was jeered during the final but still won. Both sisters boycotted the event for over a decade. Serena returned in 2015, Venus in 2016, closing one of tennis’ most painful chapters.
