Czech tennis star Barbora Krejcikova has spoken out against “unprofessional” comments about her appearance made on Tennis Channel during the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia. The Wimbledon champion expressed her disappointment at the focus on her appearance rather than her achievements, highlighting a need for increased respect and professionalism in sports media.

Krejcikova Responds to On-Air Remarks

During the WTA Finals coverage in Saudi Arabia, Jon Wertheim, an American journalist with Tennis Channel, made an off-air remark, apparently unaware his microphone was on, saying, “Who do you think I am? Barbora Krejcikova? Look at the forehead when Krejcikova and Zheng take the court.” The comment circulated quickly on social media, sparking a backlash from fans and sports professionals who felt it was an inappropriate focus on the athlete’s appearance.

Following the incident, Krejcikova addressed the remarks on X (formerly Twitter), writing: “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.”

A Call for Professionalism in Sports Media

Krejcikova further emphasized that this wasn’t an isolated occurrence, pointing to a broader issue in sports media: “This isn’t the first time something like this is happening in the sports world,” she wrote. “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.”

Highlighting the distraction these moments create, she added, “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.”

Krejcikova’s statement brought attention to the repeated scrutiny female athletes face regarding their appearance, often overshadowing their dedication and performance in their respective sports.

Wertheim Issues an Apology

Shortly after the backlash, Wertheim issued a public apology on X. “During a Tennis Channel studio show on Friday, I made some deeply regrettable comments off-air. I acknowledge them. I apologise for them,” he wrote. “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.”

Despite Wertheim’s swift apology, Krejcikova’s fans and many in the sports community argue that the remarks reflect a larger issue within sports media—where women, regardless of their achievements, are often subject to appearance-based commentary.

Not the First Incident of Its Kind

The incident brought up memories of previous media controversies in women’s tennis. In 2013, BBC presenter John Inverdale faced criticism and was forced to apologize after saying of Marion Bartoli, then the new Wimbledon champion: “Do you think Bartoli’s dad told her when she was little: ‘You’re never going to be a looker, you’ll never be a [Maria] Sharapova, so you have to be scrappy and fight’?”

This recurring pattern of comments about women’s physical appearance in tennis coverage has sparked debates about the media’s role and responsibility in respecting athletes. Krejcikova’s comments are the latest push in a broader call for respect and professionalism.

Media’s Role in Shaping Public Perceptions

Krejcikova’s critique underscores the importance of how athletes are portrayed, especially by influential sports networks and commentators. According to some industry observers, such remarks not only detract from the athletes’ accomplishments but also perpetuate outdated stereotypes, detracting from the progress women in sports have made.

Industry experts argue that coverage should celebrate and honor the rigorous training, discipline, and focus that athletes bring to their performances rather than diverting attention to irrelevant comments about appearance.

A Step Toward Change?

Krejcikova’s statement may mark a pivotal moment in addressing the need for change in sports commentary. Fans and fellow athletes have supported her call, hoping it will encourage greater respect toward female athletes in all sports. As one fan commented on social media, “These women are dedicating their lives to their sport. They deserve better than to be reduced to physical observations.”

Krejcikova’s stance represents a growing awareness in the sports industry about the need for equitable treatment and professional respect across the board.

The recent incident highlights the ongoing challenges female athletes face in sports media coverage. Krejcikova’s strong response shines a light on the necessary changes required within the industry to shift the focus back to the athletes’ skills, achievements, and dedication to their sport.

In today’s sports world, where achievements should be the central focus, the industry faces mounting pressure to shift away from appearance-based scrutiny. Krejcikova’s decision to speak out might be a stepping stone toward a more respectful and inclusive future for women in sports.

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