A five-star Paris hotel recently made headlines after denying access to its rooftop bar to tennis legend Serena Williams. The incident occurred when Williams, accompanied by another woman and a stroller, attempted to dine at the hotel's rooftop restaurant. A staff member, who reportedly did not recognize Williams, informed her that all tables were reserved and advised her to wait in the bar area until a table became available.
Williams took to social media to express her disappointment, questioning the hotel's decision to deny her entry, especially with her children in tow. The hotel later clarified that the rooftop bar was fully booked, and the unoccupied tables belonged to their gourmet restaurant, which was also fully reserved.
Following Williams' post, reactions from the public were divided, with some accusing the hotel of racism, while others defended the establishment's actions. The hotel issued a public apology to Williams for the inconvenience caused.
Williams, who is in Paris for the 2024 Olympic Games, participated in the opening ceremony's torch relay alongside her husband and children. The incident at the hotel sparked a conversation about celebrity entitlement and customer service in the hospitality industry.
