Formula One commentator Martin Brundle was snubbed by Serena Williams as he tried to interview her on the grid for the United States Grand Prix.
Brundle has become renowned for his pre-race gridwalks, during which he interviews any driver, team member or celebrity he comes across.
It was no different for yesterday’s US Grand Prix at Circuit of The Americas in Texas, but Brundle’s interview attempts did not quite go to plan.
The Brit was snubbed by a couple of American celebrities, including 23-time Grand Slam winner Williams.
“Let’s wander down here, we’ve got Rory McIlroy and Serena Williams,” Brundle said during his coverage of the race for Sky Sports.
“Venus[Serena Williams’ sister] wasn’t that keen to talk to me five years ago, I don’t know if I’ll get a double fault or an ace.”
Brundle then waited for Williams to finish her conversation with fellow sports star McIlroy, before asking the American for an interview.
“Serena, may I have a chat? Serena, are you good for a chat,” Brundle asked. “Martin Brundle, British TV.”
Williams did not react to the question, either failing to hear the commentator or deliberately ignoring him. Either way, Brundle took his rejection well, joking: “It’s a double fault, it’s a double fault.”
Brundle received most attention for failing to instigate a conversation with American rapper Megan Thee Stallion. He was turned away from the celebrity after asking her if she had “any rap for us today on Formula One?”
Red Bull’s Max Verstappen went on to win the US Grand Prix race in Austin, holding off rival Lewis Hamilton to secure his eighth victory of the season and double his lead in the standings.
Williams attended the Grand Prix with her husband, Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian. The pair would have been disappointed by the result, as they were likely in attendance to support their close friend Hamilton.
Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, has often been seen supporting Williams at Wimbledon and other major tournaments.
