Williams issues new statement, apologizes

New York:

Serena Williams issued a second statement about what she called her "inappropriate outburst" at the U.S. Open, saying she wants to "sincerely apologize."

The U.S. Tennis Association distributed Williams' latest comments about a half-hour before she and her sister played in the women's doubles final on Monday - and more than 36 hours after the 11-time Grand Slam singles champion's profanity-laced tirade at a line judge.

The official called a foot fault late in Williams' 6-4, 7-5 semifinal loss to eventual singles champion Kim Clijsters on Saturday.

Williams was fined $10,000 on Sunday for unsportsmanlike conduct and could face further penalties for what U.S. Open tournament director Jim Curley called her "threatening manner."

"I want to sincerely apologize FIRST to the lines woman, Kim Clijsters, the USTA and mostly tennis fans everywhere for my inappropriate outburst," Monday's statement read.

"I'm a woman of great pride, faith and integrity, and I admit when I'm wrong," it continued. "I need to make it clear to all young people that I handled myself inappropriately and it's not the way to act _ win or lose, good call or bad call in any sport, in any manner. I like to lead by example. We all learn from experiences both good and bad, I will learn and grow from this, and be a better person as a result."