Serena Williams has hit out at Ilie Nastase over "racist" remarks which targeted the tennis ace and her unborn child.
Nastase, the former world No 1, was overheard at Friday's Fed Cup press conference saying about Williams' baby, "Let's see what colour it has. Chocolate with milk?"
He had already asked British team captain Anne Keothavong for her room number, while, when play got under way in Constanta on Saturday, Nastase was heard to call Keothavong and British number one Johanna Konta "f****** b******" in a rant which has led to his provisional suspension by the International Tennis Federation.
And Williams has welcomed an ITF investigation into Nastase's actions.
The 23-time Grand Slam winner posted on Instagram: "It disappoints me to know we live in a society which people like Ilie Nastase can make such racist comments towards myself and unborn child, and sexist comments against my peers.
"I have said it once and I'll say it again, this world has come so far but yet we have so much further to go. Yes, we have broken down so many barriers - however there are a plethora more to go. This or anything else will not stop me from pouring love, light and positivity into everything that I do. I will continue to take a lead and stand up for what's right.
"I am not afraid unlike you. You see, I am no coward. Does my sassiness upset you. Why are you beset with gloom?
"You may shoot me with your words... you may try to kill me with your hatefulness, but still like air, I rise.
"I humbly thank the ITF for any consideration given to all the facts in this case. They will have my full support."
Nastase remained unrepentent about his conduct when confronted by a local journalist on Monday evening despite the threat of a ban from Wimbledon's Royal Box.
