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Britney Spears has claimed she was 'back handed' by a security guard as she attempted to approach NBA star Victor Wembanyama in Las Vegas.
The singer took to social media to share her side of the story on Wednesday (5 July), after she had seen 19-year-old Victor Wembanyama walking into a hotel restaurant.
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"I was not prepared for what happened to me last night," Spears said. "I recognized an athlete in my hotel lobby as I was heading to dinner [...] 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 [...]
"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 [to fall] off my face."
The statement came after Wembanyama had acknowledged an altercation took place, though he admitted he didn't know the exact details of what went down.
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Speaking to reporters, 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 - 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."
Wembanyama added that he didn't know the person who 'grabbed' him had been Spears until a few hours later.
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Spears' husband, Sam Asghari, shared his own thoughts on the incident in a statement on Instagram urging fans to blame 'the coward who did this' rather than Wembanyama.
"Self-defence can be unavoidable, but the defence of any woman, especially my wife, is not debatable," he wrote in part.
"I consider my reaction subdued considering what occurred, and I hope the man in question learns a lesson and changes his disregard for women [...]
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"I can't imagine a scenario where an unarmed female fan showing any kind of excitement or appreciation for a celebrity would cause her to be physically assaulted."
The Las Vegas Police Department confirmed they'd been made aware of an incident at approximately 11pm on 5 July, telling Sky News: "LVMPD officers responded... regarding a battery investigation.
"The incident has been documented on a police report and no arrest or citations have been issued."
Spears said the story was 'super embarrassing' to share with the world, but added: "I think it's important to share.
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"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 you."
UNILAD has contacted the Las Vegas Police Department for any updates on the matter.
Topics: Britney Spears, NBA, Sport, US News, Crime
Emily Brown