Williams has been present in Paris since the start of the Games

Even global superstars can encounter roadblocks at the Olympics. Tennis legend Serena Williams recently found herself unable to secure a dinner reservation at a prominent Parisian rooftop restaurant, despite her international acclaim.

Williams shared her experience on social media, stating that she was turned away from the rooftop dining area at The Peninsula Paris, despite the restaurant being largely empty. “Yikes @peninsulaparis I’ve been denied access to rooftop to eat in an empty restaurant of nicer places but never with my kids. Always a first. #Olympic2024,” she wrote, expressing her surprise and disappointment.

The 42-year-old athlete is currently in Paris with her family, including her 6-year-old daughter, Olympia, to enjoy the Olympic Games. Williams also participated in the Games’ opening ceremony on July 26, where she joined other sports legends such as Rafael Nadal, Carl Lewis, and Nadia Comaneci on a ceremonial boat ride.

Reflecting on the event, Williams described it as a memorable occasion despite the weather challenges. “From being part of an amazing Opening Ceremony at the Paris Olympics-to riding in the boat in the rain-and it was pouring! So much so my lashes came right on off,” she humorously recounted.

Williams’ illustrious tennis career includes 23 Grand Slam titles and four Olympic gold medals, with victories in both singles and doubles at the 2012 London Olympics. Although she retired after the 2022 U.S. Open, Williams remains an influential figure in the sports world, her recent Parisian experience adding another unexpected chapter to her storied life.