Krejcikova Calls for Respect in Sports Media After 'Unprofessional' Comment

Riyadh, November 5, 2023 - Barbora Krejcikova, the Wimbledon champion from the Czech Republic, has spoken out against what she describes as "unprofessional" comments made about her appearance during a live broadcast on the Tennis Channel. The incident occurred during her semi-final match at the WTA Finals in Riyadh, where she was defeated by China's Zheng Qinwen.

During the coverage, Tennis Channel journalist Jon Wertheim, apparently unaware that his microphone was live, made remarks about Krejcikova's forehead. These comments quickly drew backlash on social media platforms, prompting Krejcikova to address the issue publicly.

In a statement posted on X, Krejcikova expressed her disappointment, stating, "As an athlete who has dedicated herself to this sport, it was disappointing to see this type of unprofessional commentary." She highlighted that such incidents detract from the essence of sports and the dedication athletes put into their careers. "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," she added.

Following the controversy, Jon Wertheim issued an apology on the same platform, acknowledging his "deeply regrettable comments." He stated, "I reached out immediately and apologised to the player... I realise: I am not the victim here. It was neither professional nor charitable nor reflective of the person I strive to be." Wertheim emphasized his accountability and expressed regret for his actions.

The Tennis Channel has not yet responded to requests for comment from Reuters regarding the incident.

This episode has reignited discussions about professionalism and respect in sports broadcasting, with Krejcikova calling for a broader change in how athletes are portrayed and discussed in media. "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," she concluded in her post.