On Friday, August 24, French Open president Bernard Guidicelli proved he was completely out of touch by banning Serena Williams from wearing her catsuit in next year’s tournament. “One must respect the game and the place,” Guidicelli said.
The policing of women’s bodies must end. The “respect” that’s needed is for the exceptional talent @serenawilliams brings to the game. Criticizing what she wears to work is where the true disrespect lies. https://t.co/ioyP9VTCxM
— Billie Jean King (@BillieJeanKing) August 25, 2018
Williams not only wore the “Black Panther”-inspired catsuit because it looks incredible but to help prevent blood clots in her legs.
“I’ve had a lot of problems with my blood clots,” Williams said. “God, I don’t know how many I’ve had in the past 12 months. I’ve been wearing pants in general a lot when I play, so I can keep the blood circulation going.”
Guidicelli’s comments provoked an online backlash, but Williams respected the decision. “I think that obviously, the Grand Slams have a right to do what they want to do,” she said.
Even Nike jumped in on the fray.
You can take the superhero out of her costume, but you can never take away her superpowers. #justdoit pic.twitter.com/dDB6D9nzaD
— Nike (@Nike) August 25, 2018
On Monday, August 27, Williams got the last laugh in the first round of the U.S. Open. She wore a custom-designed tutu by Louis Vuitton designer Virgil Abloh and Nike in her match against Magda Linette.
The tutu was accompanied by a pair of black fishnet stockings to help with her blood clots.
I’m getting me a tennis tutu!!! #SerenaWilliams pic.twitter.com/BVQnEat2Vg
— Loni Love (@LoniLove) August 28, 2018
Serena Williams responds to controversial catsuit ban by winning first US open match while wearing tutu...https://t.co/Y9J3gu24Em pic.twitter.com/7meBVI8PQC
— LADbible (@ladbible) August 28, 2018
Nike also provided Williams with some sparkling silver sneakers with “Serena” branding the outer sole.
Serena's "Queen" shoes. pic.twitter.com/ZLtVsqwRtI
— DV (@takematchpoints) August 28, 2018
Williams defeated Linette 6-4, 6-0 and looked damn good doing it.
Grieving couple comforting each other
This response to someone grieving a friend might be the best internet comment ever
When someone is hit with the sudden loss of a friend or loved one, words rarely feel like enough. Yet, more than a decade ago, a wise Redditor named GSnow shared thoughts so profound they still bring comfort to grieving hearts today.
Originally posted around 2011, the now-famous reply was rediscovered when Upvoted, an official Reddit publication, featured it again to remind everyone of its enduring truth. It began as a simple plea for help: “My friend just died. I don't know what to do.”
What followed was a piece of writing that many consider one of the internet’s best comments of all time. It remains shared across social media, grief forums, and personal messages to this day because its honesty and metaphor speak to the raw reality of loss and the slow, irregular path toward healing.
Below is GSnow’s full reply, unchanged, in all its gentle, wave-crashing beauty:
Why this advice still matters
Mental health professionals and grief counselors often describe bereavement in stages or phases, but GSnow’s “wave theory” gives an image more relatable for many. Rather than a linear process, grief surges and retreats—sometimes triggered by a song, a place, or a simple morning cup of coffee.
In recent years, this metaphor has found renewed relevance. Communities on Reddit, TikTok, and grief support groups frequently reshare it to help explain the unpredictable nature of mourning.
Many readers say this analogy helps them feel less alone, giving them permission to ride each wave of grief rather than fight it.
Finding comfort in shared wisdom
Since this comment first surfaced, countless people have posted their own stories underneath it, thanking GSnow and passing the words to others facing fresh heartbreak. It’s proof that sometimes, the internet can feel like a global support group—strangers linked by shared loss and hope.
For those searching for more support today, organizations like The Dougy Center, GriefShare, and local bereavement groups offer compassionate resources. If you or someone you know is struggling with intense grief, please reach out to mental health professionals who can help navigate these deep waters.
When grief comes crashing like the ocean, remember these words—and hang on. There is life between the waves.
This article originally appeared four years ago.