American tennis star Venus Williams is one of the most accomplished tennis players from the US. Over the years, the 42-year-old has earned great respect for her dedication and accomplishments. The legendary tennis player was out of action for a long time. Earlier this year she returned to action with doubles participation in the Wimbledon Championships. While Venus usually is a fun-loving person, an incident that later turned out to be a joke seriously offended the tennis star. Here’s what happened.
The Shaquille O’Neal controversy with Venus Williams.
Former NBA star Shaquille O’Neal once made a claim involving Venus Williams in his interaction at the Los Angeles radio station. O’Neal had claimed he had a physical relationship with Williams. Later, he turned it down as a joke. However, it did not go well with the tennis star.
Venus came up with a strongly worded response.
“I categorically and unequivocally deny that I have ever had a se*ual relationship with Shaquille O’Neal. I don’t even know him. I’ve only met Shaquille once a few years ago, when attending an L.A. Lakers game.”
Venus had more to add.
“If Shaquille made the statement as a joke, it was in very bad taste, and I am definitely offended. I think that he should use better judgment in the future, particularly where one’s reputation is concerned,” Venus said.
O’Neal later came up with an apology.
“Those who know me know I’m a comedian. The guys who were with me in the studio knew that I was laughing, but I guess they didn’t take it as a joke, and I apologize,” he said.