Williams sisters continue their boycott
When the WTA Sony Ericsson Tour instituted new rules in September 2008 it mandated players must play specific tournaments or face possible fines and suspensions. One of those tournaments is the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells, Calif., which began March 9. Venus and Serena have boycotted the Indian Wells tournament the past seven years. This year makes it eight. They now face suspension from the upcoming Sony Ericsson Open beginning March 23. This is a big deal because the Williams’ sisters put butts in the seats. If they play tennis fans will come. Here’s the reason for their boycott. In 2001, Venus and Serena were set to square off in a semifinal at Indian Wells. Shortly before their duel, Venus pulled out with a knee injury. Some have theorized their father, Richard Williams, dictates who wins the matches when Venus and Serena play each other. Fans were highly upset. They felt something just wasn’t right. The following day Serena played Kim Clijsters in the final. She was taunted an...