“Serena Was Unfairly Targeted”: ‘Tennis Dad’ Mike Tyson Once Backed Serena Williams for Her Infamous US Open Fiasco

Serena Williams’ US Open loss to Naomi Osaka at the 2018 US Open was one of the biggest upsets in the sport. Moreover, the drama only escalated after Willams had a confrontation with the chair umpire, Carlos Ramos, after she was issued a warning for illegal coaching. The incident gained even more steam after Williams claimed that it was an issue of sexism by the referee.

Following this, the world was divided, with some claiming that the referee was right for taking strict action, while others supported the 23-time grand slam winner. Moreover, boxing legend Mike Tyson came out to show his support to Williams.

Mike Tyson defends Serena Williams

In an interview back in 2018, the former heavyweight champion backed Williams for the action and stated that the referee was in the wrong. “I thought it was a wrong call the chair umpire made. Serena was unfairly targeted.” He said.

However, he later claimed that Williams could have behaved in a more professional manner and not argued with the official, “This said she should have kept her cool and not argued with him. Arguing with him would have never done her any good.” He added.

Read More: ‘She Didn’t Give Me Any Advice’ – Mike Tyson’s Daughter Talks About Meeting Her Idol Serena Williams

Tyson has always had a vested interest in tennis, as his daughter Milan Tyson wants to become a professional player. Since his retirement, Iron Mike has closely followed the sport and is an avid fan.

The time Tyson’s daughter met Serena Williams

2016 turned out to be a great year for Tyson’s youngest daughter as she met her idol, Serena Williams. Milan was 7 years old at that time and met her favorite players, Williams and Novak Djokovic. However, she claimed that Williams didn’t have much advice for her.

Following this, Milan even got the opportunity to train with Patrick Mouratoglou, former coach of Venus Williams and Serena Williams. Tyson has stated that his daughter is very disciplined and hardworking at a very young age. Furthermore, he has claimed that if Milan wants to become a professional player; she needs to learn from the best.

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What did you think about Tyson backing Williams? Let us know in the comments.