SERENA Williams faces the prospect of being hit with the largest fine in tennis history when the world champion is finally penalised for her US Open meltdown.

Industry sources last night indicated the International Tennis Federation's Grand Slam committee was close to reaching consensus on the Williams case - almost 12 weeks after the US Open incident.

Williams has been cited under the sport's code of conduct for committing a major offence, an infraction which carries possible suspension from January's Australian Open.

Williams allegedly threatened to kill a lineswoman in New York, monstering the official with: "If I could. I would take this f - - -ing ball and shove it down your f - - -ing throat".
The winner of 11 majors, Williams almost certainly will be allowed to contest the 2010 Australian Open, where she is the defending champion.

But she is likely to receive a fine which far outstrips the $US100,000 ($107,979) Lleyton Hewitt was docked in 2002 for missing an interview in Cincinnati. ITF Grand Slam administrator Bill Babcock has completed his investigation, taking evidence and submissions from Williams and the officials.

Those findings will be discussed at the ATP World Tour finals at the O2 Arena tomorrow by the four members of the Grand Slam committee.

One option is to ban Williams from contesting next season's US Open. Alternatively, the committee could strip Williams of her $US342,825 prizemoney and the 900 rankings points.

There are suggestions a $1 million fine could be levied with a good behaviour bond.

Williams' outburst was triggered by a suspect foot fault call in a tense semi-final against Belgian Kim Clijsters.

Williams has apologised several times for the incident.

It is understood officials intend to release the Williams decision after next week's Davis Cup final in Barcelona.