It's More Than a CatSuit for Serena Williams

via yahoo sports

President of the French Tennis Federation Bernard Giudicelli has officially banned catsuits in direct response to Serena Williams’ attire at the latest French Open match. Donning an all-black compression bodysuit designed by Nike, Giudicelli stated that players "must respect the game and the place." Ah yes, because apparently a non-revealing catsuit (covering legs and upper arms) is less respectful/appropriate than a flowy mini skirt. GOTCHA.

Thanks for clearing that up G.

Williams’ catsuit is more than a fashion statement, but an actual health benefit. The catsuit helps to prevent blood clots by promoting blood circulation throughout her body. Blood clots are an ongoing medical issue Williams has experienced since giving birth last year almost killed her. So “respect for the game” ? What about respect for players such as Serena, as she’s literally putting her life on the line to play "the game"? A player who brought a new level of attention and excitement to this formerly seen as dull and racially exclusive sport?

Nike and former tennis legend Billie Jean King tweeted in support of Williams:

This is not the first time the sport has reprimanded female players for wearing catsuits during matches. A photo of white female player Anna White rocking a white catsuit 33 years ago is going viral, comparing the players. It is worth noting that White was also asked not to wear the catsuit again CNN reports.

via fashion bomb daily

While the Internet is in uproar about this new dress code, Williams assured reporters that all is well between her and the Federation President. So why was the Internet so swift to come to Williams’ defense? Well because this isn’t the first time Serena Williams has been singled out.

With 23 Grand Slam titles under her racket, Serena Williams has been named the highest paid female athlete in the world. Though NEVER failing a drug enhancing test, Williams also remains one of the most drug tested athletes. She is tested

“more than twice as often as other top American women players,” even compared to competitors that have previously failed before.

via overtime sports

It makes me wonder: Is Serena’s treatment just an expected consequence of success, or prejudice for being a successful, curvy black woman? She is someone who has consistently been body shamed, mocked and racially targeted simply because she is the greatest in her sport. Of course with great power comes great responsibility. But as a black woman— someone with double minority points, retaliation against Williams’ success is rooted in historically racial and sexist motives.

A woman in her 30’s performing so well raises an alarm to those who sadly still live in an era that believe a woman’s peak cannot last past her 25th year. Now a black woman performing this well raises even higher alarms, as Williams continues to break barriers by presenting an image of what a winner can be. While she continues to outdo her own success, we can only hope that society will catch up and just let this woman play.