Serena Williams Criticizes NYC Hotel Décor Choice

Serena Williams recently voiced her discomfort over a décor choice at a New York City hotel, sparking online conversation. While staying in the city to support Kim Kardashian’s NikeSKIMS launch, the tennis legend noticed an artificial cotton plant displayed in a hotel corridor and shared her reaction on Instagram.

“Alright everyone—how do we feel about cotton as decoration? Personally, for me, it doesn’t feel great,” Williams said in an Instagram Story. Cotton holds deep historical significance in the U.S., and Williams indicated that its presence in this context felt unsettling and inappropriate.

Despite learning the plant was fake, Williams described it as resembling “nail polish remover cotton,” but her unease remained. Her post quickly gained attention, with fans debating whether the hotel overlooked cultural sensitivity. Some agreed with Williams, while others saw it as harmless decoration.

This incident came amid a busy week for Williams, who has been attending events celebrating Kardashian’s new SKIMS-Nike line, alongside athletes like sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson and gymnast Jordan Chiles. She also attended a private fashion dinner with Kardashian and her sister Khloé, highlighting her continued influence beyond tennis.

In a separate Instagram post, Williams hinted at personal struggles, describing August as a “difficult” month. The hotel décor controversy appears to be one of several challenges she’s navigating recently.