Head of the Russian Tennis Federation, Shamil Tarpischev has evaded issuing a full on apology to Serena and Venus Williams after he called them the "William brothers", adding that they looked "scary".
According to the New York Post, Tarpichev was fined R275 000 for uttering the comments on state television.
He made the comments during an interview with former Olympic singles champion Elena Dementieva.
When quizzed by the Associated Press if he felt remorse for the comments, he said it was “a humorous show". About the ban and fine he said: “I can’t comment. I don’t understand it.”
He later added that the comments were not meant to be malicious and were taken out of context. World tennis player, Maria Sharapova supported Serena and Venus by commenting: “They were very disrespectful and uncalled for, and I’m glad that many people have stood up, including the WTA.
"It was very inappropriate, especially in his position and all the responsibilities that he has not just in sport, but being part of the Olympic committee,” she said.
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