Barbora Krejcikova addresses Jon Wertheim's controversial remark - 'disappointed to see unprofessional commentary'

Barbora Krejcikova hit back at journalist Jon Wertheim for his comments about her.

Barbora Krejcikova has slammed the remarks made about her by tennis journalist, Jon Wertheim. He had commented about Krejcikova’s appearance during the recently concluded WTA Finals 2024. Wertheim had made the comments while a rehearsal with Tennis Channel and received backlash from the fans for unprofessional commentary.

The player from the Czech Republic took to X to open up about the issue. She shared that the Tennis Channel coverage during WTA Finals was focused on her appearance rather than her performance. Krejcikova said,’ As an athlete who has dedicated herself to this sport, it was disappointing to see this type of unprofessional commentary.’

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 (cont.)

— Barbora Krejcikova (@BKrejcikova) November 10, 2024

She further went to talk about the need for professionalism in sports media. The two-time grand slam champion felt that she needed to speak up this time as it has been occurring on several instances in sports. Along with the fans, the WTA also stood with Krejcikova mentioning their full support to the player. The WTA also said, ‘Respect is due as a right, not a privilege to be earned.’

Meanwhile the clip of Wertheim’s comment had gone viral on social media. While the semi-finals match between Krejcikova and Qinwen Zheng was about to begin, Wertheim made a remark on Krejcikova’s forehead. He said,’ Who do you think I am? Barbora Krejcikova? Look at the forehead when Krejcikova and Zheng take the court.’

A few people have asked to see the footage so here it is. I'm so sorry Barbora that you've had to endure this when all you are doing is working so hard and trying your best in being a professional, which can't be said for Jon Wertheim.All the best, we stand with you Barbora. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/IDgOjpE06Y

— Pavvy G (@pavyg) November 10, 2024

As the controversy erupted, Tennis Channel issued a statement regarding Wertheim. They informed in the statement that they had removed Wertheim indefinitely and had apologized to Krejcikova for his comments.

Jon Wertheim issues apology for remark on Barbora Krejcikova

Tennis journalist Wertheim has issued an apology on X for his remarks on Krejcikova. He opened up on the incident while saying that he had apologised to Krejcikova. He also talked about the rehearsal which was taking place at that time.

He said,’ 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.’

A tennis twitter apology: pic.twitter.com/HT81C2CLeQ

— Jon Wertheim (@jon_wertheim) November 10, 2024

The American revealed that it was a private conversation between him and the Tennis Channel members which had been leaked without the proper context. His apology did not go well with the fans who felt that athletes should not be judged on their appearance on and off-air. The 54-year-old admitted that it was unprofessional conduct.

Fans also criticized Wertheim’s apology which had come after Krejcikova had made her stand clear with the fans. Wertheim will hope to reflect on his behaviour and uphold the code of conduct in journalism.

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