DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Venus Williams won her 40th singles title Saturday, defeating Virginie Razzano 6-4, 6-2 in the final of the Dubai Tennis Championship.
During the trophy presentation, Williams spoke about Shahar Peer, the Israeli player who was denied entry into the United Arab Emirates for the tournament because of what organizers called security concerns.
"I felt like I had to talk about her," Williams said. "I thought it was brave of her to come here and try and play despite knowing that it is not going to be easy for her. My dad grew up in an area where if you spoke too much, it was your life. So I felt I had a small opportunity to say something where everyone will listen."
Peer was denied entry into the country a week ago. The WTA fined organizers of the tournament a record $300,000 Friday, saying it will compensate Peer and ensure other Israeli players are not shut out of future events.
People are also reading…
"I am not here to rock any boat or upset people. I am just here to do things that are right," Williams said. "And I think right things are already happening next week and right things will happen next year."
Israeli player Andy Ram was granted a visa Thursday for the upcoming men's tournament in Dubai. On Saturday, organizers said Ram would have the security needed to play.
"Obviously, Andy Ram got his visa, so I'll be happy to come and defend next year," Williams said. "If everyone is not given the equal opportunity to play, I'd rethink. But I love this tournament. They really care about the players."
Razzano, who upset second-seeded Dinara Safina and fifth-seeded Vera Zvonareva, said her performance was the best of her career.
"I am very happy," said the 58th-ranked Frenchwoman. "I am happy for Venus, who played great and deserved to win. And I am feeling happy for myself because I played so well throughout the week. I know I can challenge the top players."
Memphis
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Andy Roddick struggled through two sets against Lleyton Hewitt before pulling out a 2-6, 7-6 (4), 6-4 victory in the semifinals of the Regions Morgan Keegan Championships on Saturday.
Roddick advanced to his second final this year and his fourth overall in Memphis, where his lone win came in 2002.
Roddick will play Radek Stepanek, who breezed past qualifier Dudi Sela 6-3, 6-1 to reach his second straight ATP World Tour final.
Victoria Azarenka won the Cellular South Cup championship Saturday night for her second career title, beating friend Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark 6-1, 6-3.
ATP
In Marseille, France, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga upset No. 3 Novak Djokovic 6-4, 7-6 (1) Saturday to reach the final of the Open 13.
Tsong will face Michael Llodra in today's final. Llodra defeated Gilles Simon 7-6 (5), 6-2 in the other semifinal.
Player, budget decisions loom as roster transition heats up for Arizona basketball
