Britney Spears is speaking out for the first time since allegedly being assaulted in Las Vegas on Wednesday evening.
Spears, 41, reportedly filed a police report after a member of the San Antonio Spurs’ security team allegedly slapped her after she claims she “tapped” NBA player Victor Wembanyama on the shoulder. On Thursday afternoon, Spears posted a lengthy statement to her social media accounts addressing the incident, moments after Wembanyama stated that she “grabbed him from behind.”
“Traumatic experiences are not new to me and I have had my fair share of them,” the “Baby One More Time” singer began. “I was not prepared for what happened to me last night.”
Spears went on to say that she first saw “an athlete” she “recognized” at her hotel, and after going to dinner at another location, she saw him again.
“I decided to approach him and congratulate him on his success. It was really loud, so I tapped him on the shoulder to get his attention,” she said. “I am aware of the players statement where he mentioned ‘I grabbed him from behind,’ but I simply tapped him on the shoulder.”
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She continued: “His security then backhanded me in the face without looking back, in front of a crowd. Nearly knocking me down and causing my glasses [to fall] off my face.”
The “Toxic” artist noted that she is familiar with being caught in crowds of people, saying “I was swarmed by a group of at least 20 fans” that same night.
“My security team didn’t hit any of them,” she added.
Her statement continued to say that sharing the details of the experience with the world is “embarrassing,” but hopes sharing the story will “urge people in the public eye” to “treat people with respect.”
She added: “Physical violence is happening too much in the world. Especially behind closed doors. I stand with all the victims and my heart goes out to all of you!!!”
Spears wrote that she has not received a “public apology” from Wembanyama or his security, but “I hope they will,” before thanking fans and the Las Vegas Police Department for their help and support.
Sam Asghari, Spears’ husband, also addressed the situation in a series of Instagram Stories shortly before the singer’s post.
[via]
