Serena Williams | Source: Getty Images
- Serena Williams is at the center of a controversy after being denied access to a Paris restaurant.
- The scandal triggered an online debate with some users claiming the tennis legend “deserves” this treatment.
- This incident is part eight of the biggest controversies that have overshadowed the 2024 Paris Olympics
The Paris 2024 Olympics have not been without controversy, with several incidents capturing global attention. One such moment involved tennis legend Serena Williams being turned away from a Paris restaurant, sparking a wave of reactions online.
This incident is just one of several high-profile scandals that have marred the Olympic Games. It joins a list of eight controversies that have stirred debates and dominated headlines worldwide.
Serena Williams attends The Prelude to The Paris Games 2024 in Paris, France, on July 25, 2024. | Source: Getty Images
Serena Williams’ Dining Dispute Sparks Online Debate
Serena Williams voiced her frustration on the evening of August 5, 2024, after being denied access to a luxury hotel’s rooftop restaurant in Paris.
The tennis legend, who recently participated as a torch bearer at the Olympics opening ceremony, wrote on X, “Yikes @peninsulaparis I’ve been denied access to rooftop to eat in a empty restaurant of nicer places 🫠 but never with my kids. Always a first. 🙄#Olympic2024.”
Olympia Ohanian and Serena Williams attend the Artistic Gymnastics Women's Team Final at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France, on July 30, 2024. | Source: Getty Images
In response to Williams’ complaint, the restaurant issued an apology for the disappointment she encountered. They clarified, “Unfortunately, our rooftop bar was indeed fully booked and the only unoccupied tables you saw belonged to our gourmet restaurant, L’Oiseau Blanc, which was fully reserved.”
Serena Williams attends the men's tennis final between Novak Djokovic of Serbia and Carlos Alcaraz of Spain at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 in Paris, France, on August 4, 2024. | Source: Getty Images
The restaurant emphasized that they have always been honored to welcome Williams and will continue to be ready to welcome her again in the future.
Serena Williams, Alexis Ohanian, and Adira River attend the Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at the Trocadero in Paris, France, on July 26, 2024. | Source: Getty Images
Many online users sided with the restaurant, saying that Williams should have made a reservation like everyone else did. “She deserves the same treatment as anyone else. Quit being a celebrity worshiper,” one user pointed out.
Another person concurred, “She deserves the same treatment as the rest of us maybe next time she’ll book a goddamn table.” Other users were more critical with their comments, noting, ” Don’t apologize to this infantile person! She deserves a Happy Meal, nothing more!!”
Users asked Williams sarcastically, “Oh no they treated you like you were one of the common folk?! Did you tell them who you are?” “Why upset? This is their policy. Equal for everyone,” one more user noted.
An individual ranted that anyone who defends this entitled behavior deserves whatever comes their way. They said, “Imagine if you’re getting a surgery in an hour and that surgeon is top in the country, but someone wealthier than you demands that surgeon to drop you and operate on them… what then?”
An online user told Serena Williams to apologize to the restaurant for acting like an overprivileged person, saying, “So you just expected someone else to lose their seat because you are Serena. Sorry your privilege card doesn’t work everywhere.”
Serena Williams attends the Sacai Menswear Spring/Summer 2025 show as part of Paris Fashion Week in Paris, France, on June 23, 2024. | Source: Getty Images
A user who weighed in said Williams was not denied access as the restaurant was booked. They added that if Williams had lost a table because someone more famous took their place, she would have been angry, too.
“These could have been anniversary dinners or proposals or people saving a year to eat there—come on. To possibly hurt their revenue. Not cool,” explained the user.
Therefore, many social media users sided with the restaurant, criticizing Williams for not making a reservation and accusing her of entitlement.
Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes Slammed Online for Being ‘Irritating’ in the Stands
Hollywood stars Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes, usually known for keeping things private, caused quite a stir online during their recent trip to the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris with their rarely-seen kids. Their style and accessories really caught netizens’ attention.
A netizen's comment about Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling's questionable choice of accessories at the 2024 Paris Olympics, posted in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/people
On August 4, the couple was seen enjoying the dressage individual Grand Prix freestyle at the beautiful Château de Versailles. Gosling wore a plaid red shirt with a white Paris 2024 cap and dark sunglasses.
Ryan Gosling at the Equestrian Dressage Individual Grand Prix Freestyle Final at Château de Versailles during the Paris 2024 Olympics on August 4, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Like her partner, Mendes looked casual and stylish in her black ensemble with a few accessories. She completed her look with a sun hat and large sunglasses.
Later, the couple were seen attending the women’s uneven bars final at Bercy Stadium with their daughters, Esmeralda and Amada, one in a yellow dress and the other in a white sweater.
Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling, along with their daughters Esmeralda and Amada, watch the women’s uneven bars final at the 2024 Paris Olympics on August 4, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
At the stadium, Gosling and Mendes wore the same sunglasses and outfits they had on at Château de Versailles. However, Ryan Gosling swapped his white cap for a green Olympic hat, while Mendes didn’t wear any headgear.
Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling, with their daughter, watching the women’s uneven bars final at the 2024 Paris Olympics on August 4, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Despite their efforts to blend in, their choice of accessories didn’t escape the eagle eyes of fans and critics, some finding it annoying. “The sunglasses. Why do ‘celebrities’ do this? It’s especially irritating when they are being interviewed,” a critic commented.
Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling watching the women’s uneven bars final at the Bercy Arena during the 2024 Paris Olympics on August 4, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
“Why are they wearing sunglasses inside?” another questioned. “Was this event held outside at midday,? If not, they look absolutely ridiculous [sic],” one noted. “If you are trying to be incognito take your sunglasses off when inside watching gymnastics 🤦🏼♀️🤦🏼♀️🤦🏼♀️ Ridiculous! [sic]” exclaimed another.
Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling watching the women's uneven bars final at the Bercy Arena during the 2024 Paris Olympics on August 4, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Someone criticized the couple’s choice to wear sunglasses, suggesting Mendes attempted to “stand out” and expressing frustration with the idea that “celebrities are the best things.”
Eva Mendes attends the women's uneven bars final in artistic gymnastics at Bercy Arena during the Paris 2024 Olympics on August 4, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
While some fans expressed their frustration, others had a bit of fun with the situation. “Are the sunglasses supposed to keep them incognito?? Don’t think it worked,” one remarked while another said, “The sun must have been blazing inside over there in France [sic].”
Eva Mendes holding her phone next to Ryan Gosling while watching the women’s uneven bars final at the Bercy Arena during the 2024 Paris Olympics on August 4, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Additionally, the online community didn’t miss a chance to comment on Mendes’ lips. “What’s with her lips ?[sic]” a user wondered. “Just a little more filler in the lips…Eva,” noted one observant netizen while another suggested, “Eva needs to lay off the lip filler…”
Eva Mendes attends the women’s uneven bars final at the Bercy Arena during the 2024 Paris Olympics on August 4, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Despite the criticisms, some fans jumped in to defend the pair and express their admiration. An admirer declared, “Hottest couple award!” and another gushed, “So glad for them, cute couple!!!!!”
Despite mixed reactions to their Olympic outing with their kids, they seem to be enjoying their time in Paris. The couple is taking in the events, making rare public appearances together, and maintaining their focus on family.
Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes at Tao Restaurant in New York City on September 30, 2017 | Source: Getty Images
Candace Cameron Bure Slams Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony for Mocking Christian Faith
The 2024 Paris Olympics opening ceremony is facing backlash on social media, including criticism from actress Candace Cameron Bure.
She expressed her disappointment in an Instagram video, claiming the ceremony mocked Christian beliefs, as it included a portrayal reminiscent of Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper.”
Candace Cameron Bure sharing her sharp critique of the 2024 Paris Olympics opening ceremony, posted in July 2024 | Source: Instagram/candacecbure
In the clip, Bure revealed she initially hesitated to comment on the Olympic opening ceremony because she didn’t want to become a headline. However, she felt the issue was too important to stay silent, so she decided to share her thoughts despite the risks.
Candace Cameron Bure sharing her sharp critique of the 2024 Paris Olympics opening ceremony, posted in July 2024 | Source: Instagram/candacecbure
Bure mentioned her connection to the Olympics, noting that her husband, brother-in-law, and father-in-law are all Olympic medalists and that they all love the Games. She also fondly remembered watching marathoners during the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics as a child.
Candace Cameron Bure shares her perspective on the 2024 Paris Olympics opening ceremony, posted in July 2024 | Source: Instagram/candacecbure
Reflecting on this year’s Olympics, she said, “So, to watch such an incredible and wonderful event that’s going to take place over the next two weeks and see the opening ceremonies completely blasphemed and mock the Christian faith with their interpretations of the Last Supper was disgusting. And it made me so sad.”
Candace Cameron Bure shares her sharp critique of the 2024 Paris Olympics opening ceremony, posted in July 2024 | Source: Instagram/candacecbure
Candace Bure shared that someone advised her not to be sad about the issue but to focus on feeling angry instead. She said, “I’m like..trust me, it makes me mad, but I’m more sad because I’m sad for souls.”
Bure’s statement came after the Olympic Games explained the opening ceremony’s meaning in a post on X, formerly, Twitter. They said, “The interpretation of the Greek God Dionysus makes us aware of the absurdity of violence between human beings.”
Following this clarification, Bure stated that many people have attempted to “correct” her views. But she later claimed that Dionysius was “a god of lust, insanity, religious ecstasy, ritual madnes etc.”
Although the real interpretation has been explained, Bure remained unconvinced. “I still don’t see how that relates to unifying the world through competitive sports and acceptable for children to watch. In any case, I’m not buying it,” she said.
Lady Gaga Reveals Her Engagement to Her Partner – Users Say He ‘Lowers Her Status’ with His Look
Lady Gaga has just hit a major milestone: she’s engaged to longtime love and entrepreneur Michael Polansky! The iconic singer unveiled the exciting news during the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, setting the stage for a whirlwind of reactions from fans and critics alike.
A fan reacting to Lady Gaga's engagement dated June 28, 2024 | Source: Instagram/entertainmenttonight
Gaga shared her engagement with Polansky at the glamorous Paris Olympics. The revelation came through an intimate moment with French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal. In a TikTok video posted by Attal, Gaga is seen introducing Polansky as “my fiancé” while the trio enjoyed a thrilling swimming event.
Following the revelation, fans have flooded social media with joy and congratulatory messages. One enthusiastic follower wrote, “She was awesome, and congratulations on your engagement. You deserve to be so happy.”
Michael Polanski | Source: Instagram/justjared
Another simply declared, “Gaga is engaged,” while a surprised fan exclaimed, “OMG THEY’RE GETTING MARRIED!!?? This is so special ❤️ I’m so happy and proud.” One longtime observer of Gaga’s love life added, “Oh boy, it’s her 3rd engagement. Hope this is the one ❤ ��”
However, not all reactions were positive. Critics have voiced their opinions, with some questioning Polansky’s suitability. One remarked, “She’s too pretty to be with him 😂❤️.” Another criticized, “You’re so iconic and then have a boyfriend like this?! With no clothing sense—who is she kidding?”
A fan critisizing Gaga's engagment to her boyfriend, Polansky dated July 28, 2024 | Source: Instagram/justjared
Another skeptic added, “Her boyfriend makes her look really bad and lowers her status. Is she okay?” Amidst the mixed reactions, some fans have defended the couple, insisting, “There’s something special she saw in him that we don’t see!”
Lady Gaga sparked engagement rumors back in April when fans noticed a stunning new addition to her jewelry collection—a massive diamond ring prominently displayed on her left ring finger.
This eye-catching bling ignited speculation about an engagement, especially since the multi-Grammy Award winner has been dating Polansky since 2019.
Even as their love blossoms, the couple has been subjected to breakup rumors. In March 2023, reports surfaced claiming that Gaga and Polansky had parted ways due to differences over marriage and children.
Despite these claims, a source close to the couple mentioned that their split was amicable and they remained friends. But just when it seemed like their relationship was over, Gaga and Polansky have made a public comeback.
Lady Gaga and Michael Polansky attends the Artistic Gymnastics Women's Qualification on day two of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Bercy Arena on July 28, 2024, in Paris, France. | Source: Getty Images
Online Users Question Snoop Dogg as 2024 Olympic Torchbearer – Here’s Why
American rapper Snoop Dogg surprised many as a torchbearer for the 2024 Olympic Games opening ceremony. While some expressed disapproval of his participation, the star shared his perspective on why he was selected for the honor.
The 2024 Olympic Games kicked off on July 26, 2024, in Paris, France. The event officially launched with over 10,000 athletes gathering on boats on the River Seine for the opening ceremony.
Ahead of the much-anticipated international sporting event, it was announced that a renowned hip-hop icon would carry the Olympic torch on its last leg.
The musician fulfilled his duty by marking the 67th leg of the torch’s journey before the Eiffel Tower. He was joined by fellow entertainers including, French rapper, MC Solaar, and French actress, Laetitia Casta.
While carrying the Olympic torch which was aflame, Snoop Dogg danced around and waved to onlookers. He also showed a thumbs up with a big smile on his face while his song “The Next Episode” featuring Dr. Dre, played in the background.
Snoop Dogg holds the torch as part of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games Torch Relay on July 26, 2024, in Saint-Denis in Paris, France. | Source: Getty Images
Interestingly, the decision to have Snoop Dogg as the torch bearer through the streets of Saint-Denis, a suburb north of Paris, caused quite a stir.
Many online users questioned why he was chosen among the many athletes who could have done the honors. Others were left confused and slammed the decision, deeming it degrading.
Snoop Dogg as a torch bearer for the 2024 Paris Olympics, dated July 26, 2024 | Source: Instagram/paris2024
People expressed their frustration regarding the record producer’s participation with one writing, “Why is he there? The bar keeps getting lower and lower.”
Snoop Dogg as a torch bearer for the 2024 Paris Olympics on July 26, 2024, in Paris, France. | Source: YouTube/PageSix
“This is the best we could do??” remarked another. Someone else penned, “Why? How come every cultural institution has devolved into a joke these days?”
Snoop Dogg as a torch bearer for the 2024 Paris Olympics on July 26, 2024, in Paris, France. | Source: YouTube/PageSix
One said Snoop Dogg was an unexpected choice, “Well, there’s the last person I thought I would see carrying the torch in France. Why not use French citizens and athletes?”
Another online user concurred, adding that there were many other suitable candidates who could have done the job, “There are lots of people who dedicate their life to sport and help underprivileged children and families and they chose him.”
Snoop Dogg carries the torch during the torch relay at the Paris 2024 Olympics on July 26, 2024, in Paris, France. | Source: Getty Images
Before the commencement of the athletic event, Snoop Dogg prepared well in advance. He reportedly arrived in Paris ten days ahead of the opening ceremony and met up with athletes and their families.
Snoop Dogg holds the torch as part of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games Torch Relay on July 26, 2024, in Saint-Denis in Paris, France. | Source: Getty Images
Not only did he get to know them better by listening to their backstories, but he also visited practice facilities to meet various teams. This includes fencing, basketball, judo, and weightlifting teams.
Of his involvement in the international multi-sport event, the actor, born Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr, proudly expressed that he wanted to show why he was chosen to carry the torch.
Snoop Dogg attends the Artistic Gymnastics Women's Qualification on July 28, 2024, in Paris, France. | Source: Getty Images
“I’m going to show you why they made me the man to do it. I’m going to put all of my resources and energy around it with peace, love, and harmony. That’s what the Olympics is all about. I feel like that’s why they chose me. That’s what I represent,” he said.
“This is my own version of it. I don’t want to get too emotional, but I know this is special,” the award-winning rapper further stated. When Snoop Dogg agreed to become an Olympic torch bearer, he reminisced on a memorable moment of watching a beloved world-famous individual doing the honors.
America’s decorated professional boxer, Muhammad Ali, lit the cauldron at the 1996 Atlanta Games. Because of that fond memory, the “Drop It Like It’s Hot” hitmaker hoped to recreate that same moment for the global audience at the Paris Olympics.
“It was emotional for all of us to see the champ holding that torch and walking up there,” said the “Day Shift” star about the late Ali who died in June 2016. It was a surprising moment for those watching the sporting event including the hosts at the time.
Muhammad Ali carries the Olympic Flame during the Opening Ceremony of the XXVI Summer Olympic Games on July 19, 1996, in Atlanta, Georgia. | Source: Getty Images
Kelly Clarkson Criticized for Olympic Commentary
Kelly Clarkson faced criticism for her commentary during NBC’s coverage of the Paris 2024 Olympics opening ceremony. Alongside Peyton Manning and host Mike Tirico, Clarkson was seen as detracting from the event’s excitement.
Kelly Clarkson attends the red carpet ahead of the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 in Paris, France, on July 26, 2024. | Source: Getty Images
Viewers expected more focus on the athletes and countries, not casual banter from personalities such as Kelly Clarkson, who were outside their expertise. Many fans voiced their discontent online, preferring more in-depth coverage and less off-topic commentary.
A disappointed fan wrote, “The commentary was annoying, disruptive, and offered very little substance. What a disappointing way to watch such an innovative event.”
Kelly Clarkson attends the red carpet ahead of the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 in Paris, France, on July 26, 2024. | Source: Getty Images
Another user mocked Manning and Clarkson, saying, “The cool thing about this Olympic opening ceremony is how Peyton Manning and Kelly Clarkson apparently did no preparation.”
One user said the attempt to bring in young viewers failed, noting, “Should have selected people fluent in French that knew SOME history. Sorry this was a fail.”
Kelly Clarkson attends the NBC's "American Song Contest" Week 4 Red Carpet in Universal City, California, on April 11, 2022. | Source: Getty Images
Another user criticized NBC, “What were they thinking? @NBCOlympics Hiring @kellyclarkson and Payton Manning was a horrible choice.”
The commenter highlighted that while Kelly Clarkson is talented and personable, the hosts were not articulate. The user added, “They hired a white dude who’s reading from a piece of paper. Terrible.”
The criticism highlights a desire for hosts who could offer more relevant and engaging commentary. Users felt that Clarkson didn’t have the knowledge or depth to offer commentary on the Olympic Games opening ceremony.
Kelly Clarkson attends NBC's "American Song Contest" Semi-Finals in Universal City, California, on April 25, 2022. | Source: Getty Images
Celine Dion’s Olympic Performance Sparks Controversy Over Payment Claims
Celine Dion, one of the most iconic voices in the music industry, made a stunning return to the stage at the 2024 Olympics opening ceremony in Paris, on July 26, 2024.
Celine Dion sings at the opening ceremony of the Summer Olympics, in Paris, France, on July 26, 2024. | Source: Getty Images
The event was not only a milestone in Dion’s career but also a testament to her resilience following her battle with Stiff-Person Syndrome. Dion performed at the Olympics’ opening ceremony, marking her first performance since her health diagnosis two years ago.
Celine Dion performing on the Eiffel Tower during the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games Paris 2024 in Paris, France, on July 26, 2024. | Source: Getty Images
Dion sang Edith Piaf’s classic “Hymne à l’amour.” Initially, TMZ reported that Dion would be earning a staggering $2 million for her performance, with all travel expenses, including jets and boats, covered by the Olympics. However, this claim was later contradicted by a spokesperson for the Paris 2024 Games.
Celine Dion performing on the Eiffel Tower during the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games Paris 2024 in Paris, France, on July 26, 2024. | Source: Getty Images
Page Six clarified that performers at the Games would not receive a fee for their performance. Instead, the organization will cover technical production costs and other performance-related expenses.
This decision highlights the performers’ commitment to being part of a historic event, rather than performing for financial gain.
Celine Dion on July 24, 2024, in Paris, France | Source: Getty Images
Dion’s performance was particularly significant given her recent health challenges. The beloved star suffers from a condition known as Stiff-Person Syndrome or SPS.
Stiff-Person Syndrome is a rare autoimmune neurological disorder that causes painful and progressive muscular rigidity and stiffness. It is progressive and can severely impact mobility and quality of life.
Celine Dion on July 25, 2024, in Paris, France | Source: Getty Images
Despite her health struggles, Dion has shown remarkable determination to reconnect with her fans. The news of Dion’s performance elicited a wide range of reactions from fans, reflecting a combination of support and criticism.
One user wrote, “No need for money. Perform because you love it,” while another commented, “She should do it [for] free.”
Celine Dion on July 24, 2024, in Paris, France | Source: Getty Images
Some expressed gratitude for the clarification about her payment, saying, “Thank you finally the truth [sic].” Supporters are also rooting for her health, with one user stating, “Well good for her. I hope she gets through it with no ill effects. She been through a lot with her illness [sic].”
Michael Phelps Weighs in on the Doping Scandal
The World Anti-Doping Agency and World Aquatics have confirmed that 23 Chinese swimmers tested positive for a banned substance before the Tokyo Olympics.
These results were kept private until media reports emerged in 2024. Both organizations accepted China’s explanation that the positive tests were due to contaminated food.
Michael Phelps attends the swimming event during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at the Paris La Defense Arena in Nanterre, west of Paris, on July 28, 2024. | Source: Getty Images
Nine of the swimmers who tested positive for a banned substance won medals, most as part of relay teams. Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian ever, has argued that those who tested positive should have never been allowed to compete in Tokyo or currently in Paris.
Michael Phelps poses on stage during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games with the Eiffel Tower visible in the background, at the Champions Park at Trocadero in Paris, on August 6, 2024.
Phelps, who doesn’t want these athletes to compete anywhere, also said, “If you test positive, you should never be allowed to come back and compete again, cut and dry.”
The former swimmer expressed his concern about the fairness of the testing process. He stated that if everyone is not subjected to the same testing, it undermines the integrity of the sport. Phelps emphasized that those who take such risks do not belong in the competition.
Michael Phelps waves to fans at Champions Park at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 in Paris, France, on August 6, 2024. | Source: Getty Images
Phelps did everything by the books during his time setting multiple world records and becoming the most decorated Olympian ever. He knew there were many who questioned whether his performances were enhanced by drugs.
“People called me a cheater throughout my career,” he explained. To address these doubts, the former swimmer subjected himself to additional testing before the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
There, he broke Mark Spitz’s record by winning eight gold medals and proved that he was competing clean. “I did it the clean way. I won 23 Olympic gold medals the clean way. It can be done,” declared Phelps.
Michael Phelps celebrates winning gold in the Men's 200m Butterfly Final at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on August 9, 2016. | Source: Getty Images
Michael Phelps now says that he never felt he competed on a level or clean playing field. He mentioned having suspicions about some athletes he competed against possibly doping but acknowledged that it was beyond his control.
Michael Phelps and Nicole Johnson attend Omega House Paris 2024 in Paris, France, on August 5, 2024. | Source: Getty Images
The former swimmer, now more outspoken about anti-doping efforts, stressed the importance of a unified global testing system.
He believes that a consistent method for testing athletes worldwide should be established and that those who test positive should be permanently banned from competition.
In summary, the 2024 Olympics have been marked by several big scandals that have caught the public’s eye. These issues show how sports, media, and public opinion are all closely connected.
