Daria Saville applauded Barbora Krejcikova for refusing to stay silent about a controversial comment made about her appearance and also praised the way in which the Czech made her point clear.
On Friday, the reigning Wimbledon champion was due to face Zheng Qinwen in the semifinal at the WTA Finals and Tennis Channel was about to start their coverage of the match when analyst Jon Wertheim joined via a Zoom call. Not knowing he was on air, the analyst told guests in the studio: “Who do you think I am? Barbora Krejcikova? Look at the forehead when Krejcikova and Zheng take the court.”
The moment was noticed by fans and it was posted on X. To no one’s surprise, it started gaining attention and started going viral. On Saturday – one day after her WTA Finals loss to Zheng – the Czech tennis star didn’t make any responses. But on Sunday morning, she confirmed that she was aware of what was said about her on air and slammed it as “disappointing” and “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 commentary,” Krejcikova wrote on X.
“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. 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.”
Saville approves Krejcikova’s move
Even before the two-time Grand Slam finalist reacted to the controversial comment, many came to her defense and called for Wertheim to be sacked from Tennis Channel. After her statement, the support only got bigger.
And fellow WTA player and former world No. 20 Saville fully supported the 28-year-old’s move and message.
“I am glad that Barbs didn’t let it fly under the radar. Very good statement too,” Saville wrote on X.
I am glad that Barbs didn’t let it fly under the radar. Very good statement too 👏👏 https://t.co/IlkMs38WMP
— Daria Saville (@Daria_gav) November 11, 2024
Meanwhile, the WTA also addressed the incident, fully standing behind Krejcikova and underling that players deserve to be treated with respect in every situation.
“There is no place in sport for inappropriate comments about female athletes. The WTA stands in full support of Barbora’s powerful call for respect. This should be the norm for all women in all working environments. Respect is due as a right, not a privilege to be earned,” the WTA said in a statement.
Tennis Channel made a strong move, Wertheim also sent out a statement
Shortly after Krejcikova called out one of their members, Tennis Channel reached out to the two-time Grand Slam champion and apologized. Also, they indefinitely removed the analyst from his work on their network.
When it comes to Wertheim, he admitted that he regretted what he said and that it should not have happened. Also, he claimed that he personally apologized to the 2024 Wimbledon champion.
“During a Tennis Channel studio show on Friday, I made some deeply regrettable comments off-air. I acknowledge them. I apologise for them. I reached out immediately and apologized to the player. 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,” Wertheim said in a written message posted on X.
“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. 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. 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.”
When Krejcikova decided to publicly address the viral video, she absolutely wanted to be heard and some actions to be taken. Considering that was exactly what happened, it is safe to say that the 28-year-old’s move wasn’t for nothing because it led to reactions and public siding with her.