Chris Evert dismisses claims Serena Williams has a tarnished record because of her US Open implosion

It was one of the most controversial moments of 2018. Did Serena Williams tarnish her reputation during last season’s US Open implosion? Tennis great Chris Evert has come out in support of the American.

Serena Williams yells at the umpire during the US Open. Picture: Getty Images

Chris Evert has dismissed claims Serena Williams has a tarnished record because of last season’s US Open implosion as the American bids for grand slam history at the Australian Open from Monday.

Questioned about Williams’ clash with umpire Carlos Ramos in New York last year, ESPN commentator and former great Evert said: “I don’t think tarnished. I don’t think tarnished is the word.

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“I think that her record, the way that she was raised, the journey, the path, the route she took to be No 1, the family, Venus, Richard Williams, I think that whole story is so overwhelming, and the fact she dominated for so long.

“She could break the record of Grand Slams. That will overshadow everything at the end of the day.

“I think there will be a side note that Serena has a lot of passion, that she has at times lost her cool on the court.

Serena Williams yells at the umpire during the US Open. Picture: Getty Images

“But I don’t think for one minute it’s going to tarnish her whole reputation or her record.”

Williams was warned for coaching and received subsequent penalties for calling Ramos a “thief” during a mid-match exchange.

The American was accused of dampening tearful Osaka’s greatest triumph as critics pointed to Williams’ past indiscretions.

Evert and McEnroe both believe Williams is more prone to pressure at Flushing Meadows because of expectation but will have more freedom at Melbourne Park.

Williams will chase an eight Australian Open, a victory which would propel onto equal footing with Margaret Court’s overall tally of 24 major singles crowns.

Patrick McEnroe described Williams’ conduct during US Open defeat to Naomi Osaka as a negative.

Serena Williams argues with the tournament referee at the US Open. Picture: AFP Photo

“I would say that this is yet another chapter in the incredible story of Serena Williams,” he said.

“There’s a lot of positives. There’s a few negatives. There’s no doubt that was a negative.

“There’s no doubt that also last year, when you look at the bigger picture, the fact she came back from having a child, she was really nowhere near 100 per cent and she still made the finals of Wimbledon and the US Open, was incredible.

“She seems to have sort of put it past her, which I think is great for her.

“She seems to be in a great frame of mind heading into the Australian Open.

“She looked very good at the Hopman Cup.”