The Tennis Channel has indefinitely removed analyst Jon Wertheim after he made a disparaging remark about Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejčíková. The incident occurred during a "private rehearsal" for a broadcast covering the WTA Finals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Despite being off-air, the comment inadvertently made it to air, prompting immediate backlash.
Krejčíková, currently ranked world No. 10 and a two-time grand slam champion, expressed her disappointment over the unprofessional nature of Wertheim's remarks. She lost in the semifinals of the WTA Finals to Zheng Qinwen. Wertheim commented on her forehead, claiming that the camera angle exaggerated it. Krejčíková addressed the comments on X, noting her frustration with the focus on appearance rather than performance.
“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” – Barbora Krejčíková
Wertheim has since apologized both publicly and personally to Krejčíková, acknowledging the regretful nature of his comments.
“I made some deeply regrettable comments off-air. I acknowledge them. I apologize for them.” – Jon Wertheim
“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.” – Jon Wertheim
The Tennis Channel swiftly responded by removing Wertheim from their programming indefinitely. They emphasized their commitment to maintaining respectfulness among their employees.
“When Tennis Channel became aware of an inappropriate comment about a professional tennis player made by our analyst Jon Wertheim on Friday, we immediately removed him from our air indefinitely” – Tennis Channel
Krejčíková's reaction highlighted a broader issue within sports media, where personal remarks can overshadow athletic achievements.
“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 honors the commitment we make to compete at this level.” – Jon Wertheim
Both Krejčíková and Wertheim have expressed a desire for increased professionalism and respect within the sports community.
“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.” – Jon Wertheim
CNN has reached out to Krejčíková, Wertheim, and the Tennis Channel for further comments regarding this incident.
Leave a Reply