Barbora Krejcikova has spoken out against “unprofessional commentary” regarding her appearance, which was made during a broadcast on the Tennis Channel. The Czech tennis player, who won Wimbledon in 2021, was participating in the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia when the comments were made. Krejcikova lost to Zheng Qinwen in the semi-finals, but it was a remark made by Jon Wertheim, a prominent American tennis journalist, that gained widespread attention. Unaware he was still on air, Wertheim made a comment comparing Krejcikova’s appearance, saying, “Who do you think I am? Barbora Krejcikova? Look at the forehead when Krejcikova and Zheng take the court.”
The comment was widely circulated on social media, prompting Krejcikova to respond publicly. On social media platform X, she wrote: “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.”
Krejcikova, who has consistently chosen not to respond to such remarks in the past, emphasized the importance of professionalism and respect in sports media. She stated: “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.”
In response to the controversy, Wertheim quickly issued an apology. In a post on X, he expressed regret for his comments: “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.”
This incident highlights an ongoing issue in the media coverage of female athletes, particularly when it comes to commentary on their physical appearances. It is not the first time a broadcaster has faced criticism for such remarks. In 2013, BBC presenter John Inverdale faced backlash for his comments about Marion Bartoli after she won Wimbledon. Inverdale questioned whether Bartoli’s father had told her she would never be as attractive as other top players like Maria Sharapova, suggesting that she had to rely on being “scrappy” to succeed. The BBC later apologized for the insensitive comments.
Krejcikova’s response underscores the importance of maintaining respect and professionalism in sports media, and her stance encourages a shift in focus from athletes’ appearances to their achievements and dedication. This type of commentary, she argues, detracts from the true essence of sports, where the performance and hard work of athletes should be the primary focus.
