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“You’re Such an Idiot”: USA’s Olympic Volleyball Champion Reminisces “Awkward” Encounter With Serena Williams During London Olympics

Published 02/13/2024, 9:26 PM EST

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The Olympics aren’t always a serious affair. Sometimes, the grand stage is filled with unprecedented moments that can result in awkward memories for the athletes representing their countries. For two-time Olympic medalist volleyball player Courtney Thompson, the 2012 London Games presented one such situation involving one of the greatest tennis players ever that still gives her the giggles.

The Olympic Opening Ceremonies is an event that’s a great place for athletes to bond with each other while soaking in the electric ambiance of the Games. However, for Thompson, the London Olympics’ opening ceremony will forever remain the time when she and Serena Williams created a special connection, and that too in a funny manner!

The Olympics are not all about tussles and medals

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In a recent podcast episode of USA Volleyball, Courtney talked about that moment when she made a goody remark about one of her colleagues, only to realize who she had just spoken to at the 2012 Olympics. Thompson remembered the attire the Team USA members were given at the Opening Ceremony: hard to pull of white jeans, and how it made some athletes complain about the fit.

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She could hear one athlete telling another of their comrades and Thompson could hear the statement, “…these white jeans are making me look fat“. Thompson wasn’t having any of that was trying to make sure her peers didn’t feel uncomfortable and assured her, “I was like, girl you look amazing“.

To further the conversation, Thompson wanted to know more about the athlete and asked her “…what sport do you play?“, only to realize who was at the receiving end of the question moments later. Immediately, Courtney comprehended the mistake she made, as she had a proper, and saw Serena Williams holding back laughter calmly at her probing question.

You’re such an idiot“, was the first thought that crossed her mind. “It was awkward for both of us,” revealed the former volleyball star, but also talked about how the tennis icon made it her responsibility to save the day with her signature poise. However, this wouldn’t be the last time Williams faced problems with her clothes.

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Serena’s recent tryst with bodyweight

Only days ago, the tennis legend took to social media to highlight how getting into her favorite Valentino dress became an issue after a sumptuous Taco Tuesday meal. While Serena complained about how her gaining weight caused her to ditch her favorite skirt, her fans assured her that she looked fabulous no matter what.

With 2024 Paris Olympics Nearing, USA Volleyball’s Jordan Larson Passes Professional Volleyball Opportunity to Prepare for Her Last Olympic Games

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Captioned “Diary of a Denim skirt“, the post underscored how Williams is living a carefree life post-retirement and how that comes with its own set of unique problems. While both stars have since hung up their respective boots, we hope this year’s Olympic Games will also come up with more such goofy moments that athletes will cherish for the rest of their lives.

Watch this story: The Double-Attack of US Women’s Beach Volleyball Team on Sand Advances Them to the Prestigious World Championship Quarterfinals

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Written by:

Diptarko Paul

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Diptarko Paul is a senior Olympic Sports Correspondent at EssentiallySports. This state-level swimmer decided to dive deep into the world of Olympics. From writing various aspects of swimming to diving deep in the world of NCAA division 1 Volleyball, Diptarko covers it all.
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Edited by:

BHUJAYA RAY CHOWDHURY