Philadelphia 76ers guard Ben Simmons on Monday slammed a Mebourne newspaper cartoonist, whose depiction of Serena Williams is being called racist.
Simmons, who is Australian, tweeted his criticism of the drawing:
To disrespect Serena Williams, a 23 time Grand Slam Champion, in this light is truly disappointing. As an Australian, I am truly disappointed #morethananathlete
-- Ben Simmons (@BenSimmons25) September 10, 2018
The cartoon is being heavily criticized on social media for exaggerating features, such as Williams' lips.
The Herald Sun of Melbourne, which retweeted the cartoon on its official Twitter account, has not made a statement regarding the cartoon.