Just another headline

A French play on words accompanying a photo of Maria Sharapova in the official tournament publication at the French Open might make English speakers do a double-take. Monday’s edition of “Quotidien” carries a front-page headline in all capital letters with Sharapova’s name. Underneath appear the words, “Lame Slave.” In French, the word “lame” means “sword” – and it is pronounced “lahm,” so it sounds like “l’ame,” which means “soul.” The term “l’ame slave” refers in French to the “Slavic soul,” a concept meant to describe a nostalgia and romanticism felt by Eastern Europeans. Sharapova, who was born in Russia, was shown the publication after her victory Monday. Her reaction: “Oh, there have been so many headlines throughout my career, and this is just another one.” – AP