TENNIS OFFICIATING

Mr. Ramos’ decisions were in accordance with the relevant rules and were reaffirmed by the US Open’s decision to fine Serena Williams for the three offenses. 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.”

An International Tennis Federation statement Monday on chair umpire Carlos Ramos in regard to the US Open women’s final Saturday. Williams was cited by Ramos for three code violations during her 6-2, 6-4 loss to Naomi Osaka. First, for getting a signal from her coach, Patrick Mouratoglou; second, for breaking her racket; and third, for berating Ramos, calling him a thief, which cost her a game.

Yesterday also brought to the forefront the question of whether different standards are applied to men and women in the officiating of matches. The WTA believes that there should be no difference in the standards of tolerance provided to the emotions expressed by men vs. women and is committed to working with the sport to ensure that all players are treated the same. We do not believe that this was done last night.”

A Women’s Tennis Association statement by CEO Steve Simon released Sunday night. Some critics accused umpire Ramos of sexism, suggesting he would not have handed out those code violations to a man.