Britney Spears is breaking her silence.
The 41-year-old singer has released a statement addressing the assault she experience from Victor Wembanyama’s security.
According to reports, Britney was allegedly “backhanded in the face by security” for the rising NBA star when she approached him to say hello and take a photo with the athlete.
Following the incident, it is being claimed that his security team apologized to Britney. But she is disputing that claim. She also filed a police report, citing battery.
Britney spoke out about the situation in a statement shared on Twitter. She began:
“Traumatic experiences are not new to me and I have had my fair share of them. I was not prepared for what happened to me last night. 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.”
She recounted what happened:
“It was really loud, so I tapped him on the shoulder to get his attention. I am aware of the players statement where he mentions ‘I grabbed him from behind’ but I simply tapped him on the shoulder.
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.”
Britney then pointedly stated:
“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.”
She said that it is important to share the story, also making a point to stand with all victims of violence:
“This story is super embarrassing to share with the world but its out there already. However, I think it’s important to share this story and to urge people in the public eye to set an example and treat all people with respect.
Physical violence is happening too much in this world. Often behind closed doors. I stand with all the victims and my heart goes out to all of you!!!”
She made it clear that she had not received an apology, and concluded by thanking everyone for their support:
“I have yet to get a public apology from the player, his security or their organization. I hope they will…
I cherish the tremendous amounts of love and support I am receiving at the moment. Thank you to the Las Vegas PD and the detectives for their support.”
After Britney first shared what happened from her point of view, Victor also shared his side. During a press conference on Thursday (July 6), he said:
“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 — and so I just know the security pushed her away.”
He declared that he didn’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.”
He admitted he did not realize that the person was Britney until later in the evening:
“At first I was like, ‘No, you’re joking.’ But yeah, it turns out it was Britney Spears.”
