Tom Rinaldi gives Serena Williams hug, kiss before interview (Video)
ESPN reporter Tom Rinaldi got uncomfortably personal with an athlete once again.
Tasked with interviewing Serena Williams following the tennis star’s finals win at Wimbledon Saturday, Rinaldi leaned in for a little hug and cheek-type kiss prior to commencing with the questions.
BRUH TOM RINALDI GOTTA CHILL pic.twitter.com/iFtHxnbC11
— $HΛRKY Mc$TEVENSON (@iamAmani_) July 11, 2015
As someone with media experience, giving an athlete a hug/kiss before an interview like that seems to be crossing a journalistic line. Of course, it’s nothing new for Rinaldi who has been criticized for doing similar things with Tim Tebow and even a football coach.
Maybe it’s these sort of interpersonal skills that leads to athletes warming up to him. Still, that’s just a tad much.
Photo via @WorldofIsaac