OPINION: Sometimes, the Williams sisters - Venus and Serena - make it very difficult to like them.
Yes, their tennis ability is beyond reproach, particularly Serena, who is the best female tennis player ever.
But seriously, sometimes they just lack class beyond winning a match and being extremely determined on the court.
Being professional is on AND off the field of play, and putting your name and face out to the public in a positive way, not just to sell the products you’re paid to endorse.
At the US Open, the Williams sisters have again shown a lack of respect for the media at times and they are repeat offenders at this.
At a Grand Slam tennis tournament, players must front up for a media conference - win or lose - or face a US$10,000 (NZ$15,170) fine. If you shirk that responsibility, the finger is pointed at you by other players and media alike.
Serena and Venus may as well just pay the fines and not even turn up. Too often, they appear to consider it beyond a chore and a disruption to their busy schedules.
This week, Serena walked out of one media conference quite abruptly, stating she was "tired and needed sleep". Venus was more than abrupt in one of her sessions, such was her lack of interest in even moderately conversing with anyone.
Just a little bit of effort for 10 minutes is all it takes. They only have to speak in one language - Roger Federer will often speak in three.
English isn't even Rafa Nadal's first language, but at least he tries. The same goes for most other players.
The Williamses quite often state, "I don't want to talk about that" when it comes to standard questions about a match or future opponents.
If a player questions why they should have to talk to the 'annoying' media, perhaps they should remind themselves how they first became interested in the game.
Was it through watching someone play on TV, hearing interviews, reading stories? The answer will most likely be 'yes' and I rest my case.
Step up, Serena and Venus. Let's see you be professional in all aspects of your game.
Dave Worsley is a Newshub sports reporter in New York, covering the US Open.
