Wimbledon champion calls out commentator's "disappointing" remarks
<p>Wimbledon tennis champion Barbora Krejcikova has called out a commentator for making "unprofessional" remarks about her live on-air. </p>
<p>The Czech player was taking part in the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia, which was broadcast on the Tennis Channel, when the comments were made by commentator Jon Wertheim.</p>
<p>The 28-year-old player took to X to express her disappointment over the comments, writing, “As an athlete who has dedicated herself to this sport, it was disappointing to see this type of unprofessional commentary."</p>
<p>"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."</p>
<p>“These moments distract from the true essence of sport and the dedication all athletes bring to the field."</p>
<p>"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.”</p>
<p>Wertheim responded to Krejcikova's posts, apologising for his comments and also explaining what happened. </p>
<p>"During a Tennis Channel studio show on Friday, I made some deeply regrettable comments off-air," he said.</p>
<p>"I acknowledge them. I apologise for them. I reached out immediately and apologised to the player.</p>
<p>"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."</p>
<p>"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."</p>
<p>"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."</p>
<p>"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."</p>
<p><em>Image credits: Artur Widak/NurPhoto/Shutterstock Editorial </em></p>
