Tennis legend Serena Williams faced online backlash after being denied access to a rooftop restaurant in Paris on August 5, 2024. Williams, who was in town for the Olympics, took to social media to express her frustration, writing, “Yikes @peninsulaparis I’ve been denied access to rooftop to eat in an empty restaurant… but never with my kids. Always a first. 🙄#Olympic2024.”

The restaurant later clarified that their rooftop bar was fully booked, and the empty tables Williams saw belonged to the fully reserved gourmet restaurant, L’Oiseau Blanc. They issued an apology, stating, “We have always been honored to welcome Williams and will continue to be ready to welcome her again in the future.”

Online reactions were divided, with many users siding with the restaurant. “She deserves the same treatment as anyone else. Quit being a celebrity worshiper,” one user commented. Another added, “Maybe next time she’ll book a goddamn table.”

Some criticized Williams for expecting special treatment, with one user noting, “Sorry, your privilege card doesn’t work everywhere.” Overall, the incident sparked a broader debate on entitlement and celebrity status.