In reference to your news report 'I don't cheat to win. I'd rather lose': Serena Williams defends her integrity after US Open final controversy (September 9), Ms Williams is an accomplished and respected tennis player and star. However, her conduct on the court in the US Open Finals was shoddy.
Ms Williams was clearly at fault. Her coach was tutoring her. Even if she missed the tutoring, she did smash her racquet in frustration and nobody can ever call the umpire a “thief” at a match in the presence of a global, live TV audience. Just because a player is an international star does not give him or her the right to abuse match officials.
Ms Williams has been highly unsporting in her conduct. Her tantrums have overshadowed the achievements of 20-year-old Japanese player Naomi Osaka. The fact is that when Ms Williams realised that she might lose after the first set, she started losing her temper. To exacerbate matters, she is giving the entire episode a feminist undertone by alleging that the umpire handed down some penalties because she was a woman.
This is a simple case of awful behaviour. It has nothing to do with feminism. Ms Williams should learn from Roger Federer, who is the epitome of tranquillity and excellent behaviour, whether he wins or loses. I am disappointed with Ms Williams. I was an admirer of her game but now I think she might just be a gifted brat.
Rajendra Aneja, Dubai
Burt Reynolds was an unforgettable screen legend
Regarding your article Burt Reynolds, star of film, TV and tabloids, dead at 82 (September 8), the elaborate coverage of the demise of the Hollywood actor was a fascinating read about his career.
He started working in TV and later become popular in the cinema. He was bestowed many awards and had many credits to his name.
No one could forget his memorable performance in Deliverance. He was crowned with many laurels in his lifetime and was also a producer and a director and apparently was also a good stuntsman. His departure is a great loss to the Hollywood film industry. May his soul rest in peace.
K Ragavan, Bengaluru
We need full disclosure on everything going in our food
With reference to your online story Should governments force businesses to disclose calorie information? (September 9), it's not the calorie information that is important. What about high-fructose corn syrup, glutamates, genetically modified organisms and other ingredients causing the problem? Don't repeat the mistakes of other countries.
Anita Viherpuro, Dubai
It’s pretty easy to find out this information if you have Google. The individual has to take responsibility.
Darren Banner, Dubai
