Krejcikova Criticizes ‘Unprofessional Commentary’ After Journalist’s Remark About Her Appearance

Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova has criticized a journalist’s “unprofessional commentary” after he made a remark about her appearance during a live broadcast.

The comments came from Jon Wertheim on the Tennis Channel while Krejcikova was competing at the WTA Finals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where she was eliminated in the semifinals by eventual runner-up Zheng Qinwen.

Following the incident, Krejcikova addressed the remarks on X, stating, “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.”

She emphasized that such remarks detract from the true essence of sports and the dedication athletes bring. “I love tennis deeply, and I want to see it represented in a way that honors the commitment we make to compete at this level,” she added.

In response, Wertheim acknowledged his comments were “deeply regrettable” and offered an apology to Krejcikova.

He explained that the remarks were made during a rehearsal that was inadvertently broadcast. “During a Tennis Channel studio show on Friday, I made some deeply regrettable comments off-air. I acknowledge them and apologize. I reached out immediately to the player,” he wrote.

Wertheim elaborated on the incident, noting that he had made a joke about a camera angle that exaggerated his forehead in comparison to a graphic of Krejcikova. “Though this was a private rehearsal, this exchange inadvertently, and without context, made it to live air,” he explained. He concluded by stating, “I realize: 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.”

BBC Sport has reached out to the Tennis Channel for further comment.