Caitlin Clark receives support from legend Serena Williams amidst ‘culture war’ in WNBA

Caitlin Clark, the No. 1 pick in the WNBA Draft, has been a crowd-drawer and a significant addition to the league.

Serena Williams and Caitlin Clark

Serena Williams, a tennis legend and one of the most polarizing figures in sports history, understands the scrutiny WNBA star Caitlin Clark is facing. Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam champion, has experienced her share of controversies and bullying throughout her career.

At the Tribeca Festival premiere of her docuseries, “In the Arena: Serena Williams,” Serena Williams shared her thoughts on Clark’s situation. She praised Clark for staying grounded and ignoring social media criticism, noting that negative comments often stem from jealousy and insecurity.

I just love that she tries to stay grounded. She said she doesn’t look at her social [media], I get it, I don’t either. I think it’s so important to just continue doing what she’s doing, no matter what other people do…And hopefully she’ll continue to do what she’s doing.

Serena Williams at the Tribeca Festival premiere of her docuseries

Serena Williams says if people are negative towards Caitlin Clark, it’s because they can’t do what she’s doing:

“I was bullied. Things I had to go through, now, people would be canceled for saying back then.”

“I just love that she tries to stay grounded and that she doesn’t… pic.twitter.com/WkAP80WrxA

— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) June 15, 2024

Caitlin Clark, the No. 1 pick in the WNBA Draft, has been a crowd-drawer and a significant addition to the league. However, she has also faced jealousy, hate, and racism, with some players and veterans taking shots at her. Williams’ comments carry weight, given her own experiences and success.

Caitlin Clark snubbed from Team USA roster, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver weighs in

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, according to The Athletic’s Sam Amick, expressed his surprise at Caitlin Clark’s omission from the Team USA roster, stating that he would have liked to see her included. Silver acknowledged Clark’s immense popularity and the significant impact she has had on the growth of women’s basketball, with the WNBA achieving record sales and TV ratings.

I wouldn’t say I’m disappointed, but it would have been nice to see her on the floor. There’s no question that she’s one of the most popular players, at this point, in the world.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, according to The Athletic’s Sam Amick

Despite her impressive credentials, the selection committee opted for an experienced roster for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, citing factors such as international competition experience, familiarity with the coaching system, leadership abilities, and depth at every position. Clark’s exclusion from the team means she won’t be competing in this year’s Olympics.

However, Silver believes that Clark will be a headliner for Team USA in the future. With her incredible talent and popularity, it’s likely that she will be a key player for the team in years to come. Team USA still boasts a strong roster aiming for an eighth consecutive gold medal, but Clark’s absence is notable, and her future inclusion is eagerly anticipated.