Rita Odafe
The Peninsula Paris has addressed the criticism it faced for refusing entry to retired American tennis icon Serena Williams and her children. Serena raised the issue on social media after being denied a table by The Peninsula Hotel in Paris for herself and her daughters, Alexis Olympia Jr. and Adira River.
The hotel responded by explaining that their rooftop bar was fully booked and the available tables were reserved for their gourmet restaurant, L’Oiseau Blanc. They expressed their apologies to Serena Williams and acknowledged her importance as a guest.
An employee at L’Oiseau Blanc mentioned that Serena looked different upon her arrival with another woman and a stroller. He clarified that the limited available tables were already reserved and it was not a deliberate action against her.
The Peninsula Paris released a statement expressing their deepest apologies to Serena Williams for the misinterpretation of the situation. They reiterated their respect and admiration for her and assured that she and her family are always welcome at the hotel.
