Chair umpire Carlos Ramos applied the rules correctly in the US Open final—and the fines the tournament hit Serena Williams with prove it, the International Tennis Federation said.
Williams was fined a total of $17,000 for three code violations during her 6-2, 6-4, loss to 20-year-old Naomi Osaka in the US Open final.
Watch: Osaka Slams Serena In Wild US Open Final
"It is understandable that this high profile and regrettable incident should provoke debate," the ITF said in a statement. "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."
US Open tournament referee Brian Earley fined Williams $10,000 for verbal abuse of chair umpire Carlos Ramos after the 23-time Grand Slam champion called the veteran chair umpire "a thief" charging he "stole" a point from her.
The 17th-seeded Williams was fined $4,000 for being warned for coaching, and $3,000 for smashing her racquet.
The ITF posted this statement supporting Ramos after the US Open final came to a controversial conclusion on Saturday night.
ITF Statement on Carlos Ramos
Carlos Ramos is one of the most experienced and respected umpires in tennis. Mr. Ramos’ decisions were in accordance with the relevant rules and were re-affirmed 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.
Photo credit: Getty