Czech tennis star Barbora Krejcikova has called for greater respect and professionalism in sports media after facing 'unprofessional' comments about her appearance during a broadcast on the Tennis Channel.
Krejcikova, the Wimbledon champion, was competing at the WTA Finals in Riyadh this week, where she was defeated 6-3 7-5 by Olympic gold medallist Zheng Qinwen in the semifinals. During the Tennis Channel's coverage of the event on Friday, journalist Jon Wertheim, apparently unaware that he was on air, made a remark about Krejcikova's forehead, which drew criticism on social media.
'As an athlete who has dedicated herself to this sport, it was disappointing to see this type of unprofessional commentary,' world number 13 Krejcikova wrote on X. 'This isn't the first time something like this is happening in (the) sports world. 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.'
Krejcikova emphasized that such moments detract 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,' she added.
Wertheim later apologized for his comments on X, stating: 'During a Tennis Channel studio show on Friday, I made some deeply regrettable comments off-air. I acknowledge them. I apologise for them. 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. I am accountable. I own this. I am sorry.'
Reuters has contacted the Tennis Channel for comment.
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