Kamakshi debunks the "if I don't play a tournament they will take my family hostage and shoot my puppies" myth that seems to be plaguing the WTA these days.
But [Serena's] protests about being forced to play ring more hollow. For years, Williams paid the rules scant attention and set her schedule according to her own priorities and physical state. Now, she seems to be setting a rather low price on her own health by choosing to play injured rather than pay a few fines.
It's a strange sight: a player who has earned almost $24 million in prize money during her career -- not to mention millions more in endorsements -- martyring herself over a few hundred thousand dollars. But so far, she has no convincing explanation for why she has made that choice. And make no mistake -- a choice it is.
Boom goes the dynamite.
