I have a problem with the overuse of the word "haters" (I don't think it's in the article). A hater is someone who criticizes a player without a legitimate basis. Criticizing Safina for being #1 without having won a major is legitimate criticism (especially when, in the same time frame, Serena has won 2 majors and been the runner up in another). Safina is responding to her "critics", not "haters".