Williams accuses Russian tennis chief of 'sexist and racist bullying' - VIDEO

Shamil Tarpischev, of the Russian Tennis Federation, made the remarks during an appearance on a local TV talk show this month alongside former Olympic singles champion Elena Dementieva.When Dementieva was asked what it was like playing against the Williams sisters, Tarpischev cut in and called them the 'Williams brothers', before adding: 'It's scary when you really look at them.'The official was later handed a one-year suspension imposed by the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) for the comments. He was also ordered to pay a $25,000 fine.Speaking in Singapore today, ahead of her WTA Finals defense, Williams said: 'I think the WTA did a great job of taking (the) initiative and taking immediate action to his comments.'I thought they were very insensitive and extremely sexist as well as racist at the same time. I thought they were in a way bullying. 'When asked whether he regretted his comments, Tarpischev initially told AP that the program on which he spoke was 'a humorous show.' He added that he 'didn't understand' his one-year ban.But in a statement later released by the Russian Tennis Federation, the chief denied any 'malicious intent' and said his quotes had been taken out of context.Russian tennis player Maria Sharapova, 27, has also spoken out against her compatriot's comments.'I think they were very disrespectful and uncalled for and I'm glad that many people have stood up, including the WTA,' said Miss Sharapova, who is also in Singapore for the BNP Paribas WTA Finals.'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.'(dailymail.co.uk)Bakudaily.Az