Serena Williams hits back at catsuit criticism by switching to designer tutu

Serena Williams hits back at catsuit criticism by switching to designer tutu

There is no doubt that Serena Williams is a champion and has a knack for both tennis and fashion. However, it seems as though the sportswoman's freedom was being interfered with when French Open president Bernard Giudicelli confirmed that a dress code had been introduced for the 2019 tournament. 

The black catsuit outfit which Serena had sported for this year's tournament is no longer going to be accepted. The direct target on Serena was disguised very well as the rule applies to everyone competing in the tournament. "One must respect the game and the place," Giudicelli attempted to explain. In response to this strange rule, Williams chose to compete in the US Open and sported a one-shoulder black Virgil Abloh bodysuit and a flouncy tutu. She also sported a pair of fishnet stockings. 

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(Source: Getty Images)
(Source: Getty Images)

The outfit was the outcome of a collaboration with Nike that had also designed the controversial French Open catsuit. The outfit had some personal touches with the name 'Serena' written in white text across the lower half of the garment's sleeve. 

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Giudicelli had told Tennis Magazine that he believed the community had become too lax where sports outfits were concerned. "Serena’s outfit this year, for example, would no longer be accepted," he said referring to her catsuit. 



 

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Williams' decision to wear the catsuit was not just for fashion purposes but also because the compression of the outfit was crucial in preventing blood clots from forming. "I had a lot of problems with my blood clots, and, God, I don't know how many I have had in the past 12 months," Serena explained referring to how unwell she got after the birth of her daughter. "So there is definitely a little functionality to it," she continued. 

Among the many fans and followers she has, Williams' husband Alexis Ohanian was also seen cheering his wife on as she won her first match against Poland's Magda Linette. A few of her fans are of the opinion that Giudicelli was actually body shaming Williams and his decision has sparked a lot of outrage from people across the globe. 

The custom outfit featuring a one-shoulder top and a tulle skirt was created by Louis Vuitton designer Virgil Abloh (Getty Images)

The custom outfit featuring a one-shoulder top and a tulle skirt was created by Louis Vuitton designer Virgil Abloh (Getty Images)

 

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