Britney Spears has released an emotional statement following her “traumatic experience” with NBA star Victor Wembanyama.
On Wednesday (5 July), the pop icon was assaulted by a member of the French basketball player’s security detail in Las Vegas.
According to TMZ, the incident took place outside the CATCH seafood restaurant in Las Vegas’ Aria Hotel.
In a statement, Las Vegas Police told Sky News that LVMPD officers responded to a “battery investigation” at 11pm: “The incident has been documented on a police report and no arrest or citations have been issued.”
Britney said she was “not prepared for what happened” to her.
She wrote: “I recognized an athlete in my hotel lobby as I was heading to dinner. I later went to a restaurant at a different hotel and saw him again. I decided to approach him and congratulate him on his success.”
Britney refuted Wembanyama’s claims that she “grabbed him from by behind”, saying she “tapped him on the shoulder to get his attention”.
“His security then back handed me in the face without looking back, in front of a crowd. Nearly knocking me down and causing my glasses off my face,” she explained.
“I get swarmed by people all the time. In fact, that night. I was swarmed by a group of at least 20 fans. My security team didn’t hit any of them.”
While Britney admitted that she’s “super embarrassed” to share the events of the assault, she said “it’s important to share this story and to urge people in the public eve to set an example and treat all people with respect.
Instagram [@britneyspears]
Britney revealed that she is yet to receive an apology from Wembanyama or his team: “I also don’t appreciate nor do I think this is a laughing matter.
“Watching the player smile and laugh was cruel and demoralizing with the situation that took place. I am 5’3 and he’s 7’4… I cherish the tremendous amounts of love and support I am receiving at the moment.”
Wembanyama previously told reporters: “I didn’t see what happened, because I was walking straight and we were told ‘Don’t stop’.
“But that person grabbed me from behind – not on my shoulder, she grabbed me from behind – so I just know the security pushed her away.
“I don’t know with how much force, though. But security pushed her away. I didn’t stop to look, so I could walk in and enjoy the nice dinner.”
Britney’s husband Sam Asghari also condemned the incident, saying: “I hope the man in question learns a lesson and changes his disregard for women.”
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