International Tennis Federation backs the umpire who penalized Serena Williams a the U.S. Open

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September 10, 2018 7:33 PM

The ITF said in a statement that umpire Carlos Ramos acted with professionalism and integrity and followed the rules properly when he assessed Serena Williams with three code violations during the U.S. Open final.

The International Tennis Federation backed umpire Carlos Ramos after giving Serena Williams three code violations in a controversial scene at the U.S. Open final.
Williams argued the violations were sexist; she was backed by the WTA and USTA.
The ITF said in its statement that Ramos' decisions followed the rules and that he acted with "professionalism and integrity."

The International Tennis Federation on Monday released a statement backing umpire Carlos Ramos after a controversial scene with Serena Williams in the U.S. Open final.

Ramos gave Williams three code violations during the final, first for receiving coaching, then smashing a racket, and then for verbal abuse, eventually resulting in a lost game. Her opponents Naomi Osaka, went on to win the match.

"Carlos Ramos is one of the most experienced and respected umpires in tennis," the ITF's statement read. "Mr. Ramos' decisions were in accordance with the relevant rules and were re-affirmed by the U.S. Open's decision to fine Serena Williams for three offences.

"It is understandable that this high profile and regrettable incident should provoke debate. At the same time, it is important to remember that Mr. Ramos undertook his duties as an official according to the relevant rule book and acted at all times with professionalism and integrity."

Williams argued during and after the match that the penalties were sexist, arguing men have said worse to umpires. During the match, Williams told Ramos he was a "thief" for taking a point from her. She was fined $17,000 for the violations.

Both the Women's Tennis Association and U.S. Tennis Association backed Williams after the match. WTA executive chief Steve Simon said in a statement that he didn't think equal standards between men and women were applied during the match.

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