Barbora Krejcikova has hit back at an American journalist after they mocked her appearance live on air.
Jon Wertheim appeared to poke fun at the Wimbledon champion whilst off camera on the Tennis Channel.
Barbora Krejcikova has hit back at an American journalist who mocked her appearance[/caption]
The incident occurred during coverage of the WTA Finals as the broadcast was about to begin.
Wertheim could be heard saying: “What do you think I am? Barbora Krejcikova? Look at the forehead when Krejcikova and Zheng [Qinwen] take the court.”
Krejickova has now responded to the comments in a social media post.
The world number 13 wrote on X: “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. 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.”
The 28-year-old’s post comes after Wertheim also issued a statement apologising for his remarks.
He wrote: “During a Tennis Channel studio show on Friday, I made some deeply regrettable comments off-air. I acknowledge them. I apologize for them. I reached out immediately and apologized to the player.
Krejcikova reached the semi-finals of last week’s WTA Finals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia[/caption]
“What happened? I joined the show by Zoom. In rehearsal we were shown a graphic of a player who had just competed. It showed her at an angle that exaggerated her forehead.
“A few moments later, I was told to frame up my Zoom. I looked at the low camera angle and joked that it made my forehead resemble the photo of the player in question. Someone in the control room chimed in and I bantered back.
“Though this was a private rehearsal, this exchange inadvertently, and without context, made it to live air.
“I realize: 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.”
Krejcikova, who is a two-time Grand Slam winner, picked up wins over Jessica Pegula and Coco Gauff at last week’s WTA Finals.
However, she was beaten in the semi-finals by Qinwen Zheng in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
