"Backstory" docu- series investigates 2018 US Open final

Just in time for the US Open, and for their first match since last year's controversial final, ESPN is presenting Backstory. The episode centers on the 2018 US Open final between Serena Williams and Naomi Osaka, and is titled, “Serena vs. The Umpire".

“We’re exploring stories that are unresolved and have layers to them, and that’s certainly the case with what happened at last year’s US Open women’s final,” said John Dahl, Vice President and Executive Producer, ESPN Special Projects and Original Content. “With this and subsequent stories, viewers will follow along with Don [Van Natta] on his deep dive for truth.”

The drama between Serena and Carlos Ramos was debated globally for months following Serena's loss to Osaka. A year later, opinions are still strong – and with the 2019 US Open set to begin on Aug. 26, the biggest story of the 2018 event is far from forgotten.

Interviews include Serena's coach Patrick Mouratoglou, Chris Evert, Pam Shriver, retired chair umpire Norm Chryst, his wife and retired line umpire Palma Chryst, and three journalists.

“As an investigative reporter for 25 years, I’ve tried to tell the in-depth stories that others might have overlooked,” said Van Natta, an ESPN Senior Writer and executive producer of Backstory. “I’m excited for the chance to try to reveal new facts and surprising insights about some of sports’ most intriguing unanswered questions.”

The episode will air on Sunday, Aug. 18, and the next episode of Backstory will move on to baseball.