Call for Respect in Sports Media: Krejcikova's Stand

Czech tennis player Barbora Krejcikova criticized sports media for unprofessional comments made about her appearance during a Tennis Channel broadcast. She emphasized the importance of respect and professionalism in sports coverage, following inappropriate remarks by journalist Jon Wertheim, who has since been suspended.

Czech tennis star Barbora Krejcikova has urged sports media to uphold respect and professionalism after a controversial incident involving journalist Jon Wertheim. During a Tennis Channel broadcast, Wertheim inadvertently made an unprofessional comment about Krejcikova's appearance, sparking criticism on social media.

Wertheim, apparently unaware he was being broadcast, commented on Krejcikova's forehead during coverage of the WTA Finals in Riyadh. The network responded by suspending Wertheim indefinitely, citing a breach of professional standards. In a statement to Reuters, Tennis Channel apologized to Krejcikova and reiterated its commitment to respectful conduct.

Krejcikova, a Wimbledon champion, expressed her disappointment with such remarks in a post on social media platform X, emphasizing the need for dignified representation of athletes. She believes that the focus should remain on the dedication and essence of the sport rather than distracting comments.

(With inputs from agencies.)