Serena Williams ended up losing the US Open Semi-Final match do an emotional, some would say over the top, outburst which ultimately cost her the match.

Here are some questions that I asked myself, and I’d love to get your take on them too.

1. Do you think the line judge made the right call (no, foot fault, no meltdown)?

In my book,  that is the wrong call at the end of any match, let alone in the semifinals of the U.S. Open. This isn’t because a foot fault is a ridiculous call at that this stage of a match (even though it is ). It’s because I don’t believe it was even a foot fault at all.

The TV replays showed that Serena’s foot was definitely behind the line when she served. Many would even say that it was close but not close enough to make the call. What do you think? What did you see?

2. Do you think it warranted a penalty?

I love Serena and her game, but I think she was way out of line here. She lost her composure. Though it be something she’s very good at 90% of the time, this was not one of those times. And I think the penalty was justified. Even our buddy John McEnroe wasn’t very pleased and thought she went off the deep end a little.

I mean, it all boils down to this.  You not only have to protect the players, but you also have to protect the official tournament staff. That includes ball boys, line’s men, the chair umpire, and ofcourse the fans.

I’m not saying that Serena really would have done any harm to the lines woman. I don’t think that would have been the case in the slightest bit, but you have to prepare for the worst. I think though it’s amazingly unfortunate but the right call.

3. Should their be a fine or further action taken? Should she lose sponsorships? Do you think it will cost her some of her fan base?

I really don’t know. I think when she reviews this and watches it in a film session, that and losing a big chance at a grand slam title will be all the punishment she needs. It’s really going to hit her hard, even harded than now.  I really don’t think it’s sunk in yet.

But yes, I think the sponsors will take a long hard look at it, because at the end of the day, it is a business unfortunately. And this is not specific to Serena. I think they’d do that for any athlete. And then make a desicion based on how much they think it has hurt their brand, if at all.

Me being a big tennis fan and avid player, I know everyone has these moments. The difference is they’re not televised on the big stage where everyone can see them. We’ve all taken something out on someone else, justified or not.

So I don’t condone what she said at all, but I do  understand it, and sympathize with her. With all the adrenaline pumping and with the stakes so high, it’s much easier for the nerves to be ripped to shreds than say if someone is late picking you up from school or gave you the wrong order at a restaurant.

So, I think her other fans will understand that as well. Do you agree?

Tell me your thoughts…

Brian Hall, Your Tennis Mind Coach