Serena Williams’ former coach Patrick Mouratoglou recently expressed his views on the ongoing violence between Israel and Palestine.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is one of the world’s most complex and long-term problems. It involves historical, religious, political and territorial disputes, leading to violence and suffering on both sides.
Recently, the situation has escalated again, with Hamas rocket attacks and Israeli air strikes causing hundreds of casualties. The international community has called for an immediate ceasefire and a peaceful resolution of the conflict.
Mouratoglou posted on social media on Friday, October 13, condemning attacks against innocent civilians and calling for peace and justice. He did not explicitly support or condemn either side. Instead, he focused on human suffering and the need for peace.
“What happened in Israel on October 7 was unacceptable, horrific and a tragedy that words cannot adequately describe. Nothing can justify this barbaric act and we has seen the epitome of it.” Moratoglu wrote.
He added: “I stand for peace and oppose any form of terrorism. I have deep sympathy for all those who have experienced absolute horror and my condolences to their families.”
Mouratoglou also said he would not take sides but felt sorry for all the victims.
“There is no justification for violence and terrorism. No matter who the aggressor is. There is no party but great sadness for all the innocent victims around the world. What happened is indescribable,” he continued.
Patrick Mouratoglou praises Venus and Serena Williams for their huge impact in driving diversity in the sport
French coach Patrick Mouratoglou recently praised Serena and Venus Williams for their immense contribution to tennis, both in diversifying the sport and inspiring millions around the world People aspect.
Serena Williams ended her illustrious career last year, while Venus continues to compete on the WTA Tour. The American was last seen at the 2023 US Open in New York.
Mouratoglou, who coached Serena Williams for more than a decade, emphasized the importance of the Williams sisters to tennis. Not only did they open doors for people of color, he said, but they became symbols of excellence.
Mouratoglou told CNN: “I think Serena and Venus Williams inspired a lot of African Americans and black people because before them, it was difficult for people of color to Imagine yourself in that place.”
“They really opened a door for people of color. To win a Grand Slam and make history like the two of them did, you start to think ‘This is possible for me too.'” That’s the inspiration, that’s it. They are an inspiration to the world,” he added.
Venus and Serena Williams won a combined 30 Grand Slam singles titles and dominated women’s tennis for nearly 15 years. The pair also won 14 Grand Slam titles as a doubles team and never lost a doubles final at a Grand Slam tournament.
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