Following accusations of match-fixing and racial slurs directed at her and her family, Serena boycotts the Indian Wells tournament for 14 years. She later returns in 2015.

In a quarterfinal match against Jennifer Capriati, Serena is the victim of several incorrect line calls that ultimately contribute to her loss. This incident sparks widespread debate about the use of instant replay in tennis.

In a semifinal match against Kim Clijsters, Serena is penalized for a foot fault and subsequently receives a point penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct after arguing with a line judge. She loses the match.

During the final against Samantha Stosur, Serena receives a code violation for verbal abuse towards the chair umpire, which affects her focus and contributes to her loss.

In the final against Naomi Osaka, Serena receives three code violations: for coaching, racquet abuse, and verbal abuse towards the chair umpire. She argues vehemently with the umpire, leading to a point penalty and ultimately costing her the match. This incident sparks a major controversy about sexism in tennis officiating.