NEW YORK (AP) – Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova called Tennis Channel commentator Jon Wertheim on social networks Sunday for what she called “coverage focused on my appearance rather than my performance.”
Wertheim later apologizedacknowledging that what he said were “deeply regrettable off-air comments” that “were inadvertently broadcast live.”
Krejcikova played last week in the WTA Finals, broadcast on Tennis Channel.
She is a 28-year-old Czech who also won a Grand Slam singles title at the 2020 French Open and also has seven major doubles trophies.
“As an athlete who has dedicated herself to this sport, it was disappointing to see this type of unprofessional comment. This is not the first time something like this has happened in the world of sports. I have often chosen not to speak out, but I think it is time to address the need for respect and professionalism in sports media,” Krejcikova wrote. “These moments distract from the true essence of sport and the dedication that all athletes bring to the court. I love tennis deeply and want to see it represented in a way that honors the commitment we make to competing at this level.
Wertheim also works for Sports Illustrated and is a correspondent for “60 Minutes.”
___
AP Tennis: https://apnews.com/hub/tennis
