Venus & Serena Williams – Jane Campion Apologizes To Tennis Stars For Comments Made At Critics Choice Awards: ‘I Did Not Intend to Devalue’

Venus & Serena Williams – Jane Campion Apologizes To Tennis Stars For Comments Made At Critics Choice Awards: ‘I Did Not Intend to Devalue’

The Power of the Dog director, Jane Campion is receiving major backlash for remarks made at this years Critic Choice Awards!

While accepting the award for best director, the 57-year-old filmmaker pointed out other women who have broken down barriers and have found success in a male-dominated industry–including Venus and Serena Williams. In her speech, she also made a joke about the Williams sisters not having to compete with men the same way she has had to.

“What an honor to be in the room with you… I’d also just like to give my love out to my fellow — the guys. And Serena and Venus, you are such marvels. However, you do not play against the guys, like I have to.”

Venus Williams

Serena Williams

In the audience, Serena, 40, was seen laughing while clapping for Campion, while Venus, 41, gave a smirk but seemingly looked confused.

Here's the clip of Jane Campion's speech#CriticsChoiceAwards pic.twitter.com/pucAsmE2JF

— philip lewis (@Phil_Lewis_) March 14, 2022

Her comments received major backlash online! Several social media users found her remarks problematic claiming Campion downplayed the barriers the sisters had to overcome to be successful in a male-dominated field.

On Monday (Mar.14) Jane Campion released a statement apologizing for her “thoughtless” comment.

“The last thing I would ever want to do is minimize remarkable women. I love Serena and Venus. Their accomplishments are titanic and inspiring. Serena and Venus, I apologize and completely celebrate you.”