Czech Republic’s Barbora Krejcikova, in action with China’s Qinwen Zheng during women’s singles semi final match at King Saud University Indoor Arena, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Friday, Nov. 8, 2024. (AP Photo)
Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova has expressed disappointment over a recent incident involving a journalist’s “unprofessional commentary” about her appearance during the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia.
The Czechia player took to social media to criticize the comments made by Jon Wertheim, a prominent American tennis journalist. Wertheim, seemingly unaware that he was live on air, made remarks about Krejcikova’s appearance, specifically her forehead.
“Who do you think I am? Barbora Krejcikova? Look at the forehead when Krejcikova and Zheng take the court,” Wertheim said on US TV Network Tennis Channel. The clip that has since gone viral on social media.
Krejcikova, who lost in the semi-finals at the WTA Finals, deemed the comments unprofessional and inappropriate, and highlighted the importance of respectful discourse in sports.
“You might have heard about the recent comments made on Tennis Channel during the WTA Finals coverage that focused on my appearance rather than my performance. As an athlete who has dedicated herself to this sport, it was disappointing to see this type of unprofessional commentary. This isn’t the first time something like this is happening in sports world,” the Czech tennis ace wrote on X.
“I’ve often chosen not to speak up, but I believe it’s time to address the need for respect and professionalism in sports media. These moments distract from the true essence of sport and the dedication all athletes bring to the field. I love tennis deeply, and I want to see it represented in a way that honours the commitment we make to compete at this level,” added Krejcikova.
Krejcikova won the Wimbledon this year, which was remarkable as she started the tournament as the 31st seed. In the final, she defeated Jasmine Paolini to claim her second Grand Slam title, which came three years after her first Major at the French Open.
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First uploaded on: 10-11-2024 at 17:16 IST
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