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Tennis legend Serena Williams found herself at the center of an unexpected controversy when she was reportedly denied a table at The Peninsula Hotel's rooftop restaurant. The incident, which occurred on August 5, 2024, quickly gained traction on social media and ignited a debate about celebrity treatment and restaurant policies.
Williams, a four-time Olympic gold medalist, took to social media to express her disappointment, writing, "Yikes @PeninsulaParis I've been denied access to rooftop to eat in an empty restaurant of nicer places but never with my kids. Always a first. #Olympic2024." The post immediately sparked reactions from fans and critics alike.
The Peninsula Hotel swiftly responded to Williams' claim, offering an explanation and apology. "Dear Mrs. Williams, Please accept our deepest apologies for the disappointment you encountered tonight," the hotel stated. "Unfortunately, our rooftop bar was indeed fully booked and the only unoccupied tables you saw belonged to our gourmet restaurant, L'Oiseau Blanc, which was fully reserved."
An employee at L'Oiseau Blanc, Maxime Mannevy, provided additional context to Variety, saying, "When she came there were only two tables available and they had been reserved by clients of the hotel. My colleague didn't recognize her and feels terrible, but he told her what he would have told any other client, which is to wait downstairs in the bar for a table to become available."
The incident occurred against the backdrop of the Olympic Games, where Williams had been a prominent figure. She participated in the opening ceremony on July 26 as a torch bearer and was seen attending various events, including cheering on Simone Biles and the U.S. women's
gymnastics team.
Public reaction to the incident was divided. Some criticized the hotel for not accommodating the sports icon, while others questioned Williams' expectations. The debate highlighted the complex dynamics between celebrity status and standard business practices.
Prior to this incident, Williams had been enjoying her time in Pariswith her family, including husband Alexis Ohanian and their children, Alexis Olympia Jr. and Adira River. Her presence at the Olympics was a reminder of her illustrious career, which includes four Olympic gold medals – one in women's singles and three in women's doubles with her sister Venus.
As the controversy unfolded, it underscored the ongoing challenges of balancing customer service, celebrity culture, and fair treatment in high profile settings. The Peninsula Hotel maintained its stance, reiterating in a statement to TODAY, "She has always and will always be more than welcome with her family to The Peninsula."
The incident serves as a talking point about expectations, recognition, and treatment in the hospitality industry, especially during high-profile events like the Olympics. As the Games continue, it remains to be seen how this episode might influence future interactions between
celebrities and establishments in the host city.
