Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova has publicly criticised journalist Jon Wertheim over his “unprofessional commentary” regarding her forehead. The remark, which was inadvertently broadcast during a Tennis Channel rehearsal, prompted Krejcikova to address the need for more respect and professionalism in sports media.
Krejcikova Criticises Journalist Over Forehead Remark
Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova has publicly criticised a journalist’s “unprofessional commentary” after an off-air remark about her appearance was inadvertently broadcast during a Tennis Channel coverage of the WTA Finals in Riyadh.
Jon Wertheim, a well-known journalist and analyst for Tennis Channel, made the comment about Krejcikova’s forehead while commenting on a graphic shown during a rehearsal. The remark, which was intended as a private exchange, was mistakenly aired live during the Friday show. Krejcikova, who was competing in the WTA Finals, was eliminated in the semi-finals by eventual runner-up Zheng Qinwen.
Jon Wertheim Apologises After Inadvertently Making the Comment on Air
Wertheim, realising the gravity of his comment, issued an apology, acknowledging that his remarks were inappropriate and unprofessional. In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), he explained that during the rehearsal, a graphic of Krejcikova was shown at an angle that exaggerated her forehead. He then joked about his own forehead, which led to the exchange being broadcast live.
“I apologise to Barbora Krejcikova for my deeply regrettable comments. What happened was completely unprofessional, and I’m accountable for my actions,” Wertheim said. “I did not intend for my comments to be aired, but I take full responsibility for what occurred.”
Tennis Channel Takes Immediate Action Following Incident
Following the incident, Tennis Channel immediately suspended Wertheim from the air indefinitely. A statement from the network said they did not condone the comments made by Wertheim and apologised to Krejcikova for the hurt caused. The network reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a standard of respect for all athletes.
“The inappropriate comment made by Jon Wertheim does not reflect the values of Tennis Channel,” the statement read. “We are committed to promoting respect and professionalism in the sport, and we regret that this moment distracted from that mission.”
Krejcikova Speaks Out About the Need for Respect in Sports Media
In response to the incident, Krejcikova expressed her disappointment with the commentary, emphasising the importance of professionalism in sports journalism. “As an athlete who has dedicated herself to this sport, I believe it’s time to address the need for respect and professionalism in sports media,” she said in a post on X. “It’s disheartening when commentary shifts focus from performance to appearance.”
Krejcikova also highlighted that this was not the first time such unprofessional remarks had been made in the sports world, but she stressed that athletes deserved to be respected for their skills and dedication. “We all work hard, and our performances should be the focus,” she added.
Links:
- External Link: BBC Sport
- Internal Link: Eurasia Sports
