Daria Saville applauded Barbora Krejcikova for refusing to remain silent a few controversial remark made about her look and likewise praised the best way by which the Czech made her level clear.
On Friday, the reigning Wimbledon champion was as a result of face Zheng Qinwen within the semifinal on the WTA Finals and Tennis Channel was about to begin their protection of the match when analyst Jon Wertheim joined by way of a Zoom name. Not understanding he was on air, the analyst advised visitors within the studio: “Who do you assume I’m? Barbora Krejcikova? Have a look at the brow when Krejcikova and Zheng take the courtroom.”
The second was observed by followers and it was posted on X. To nobody’s shock, it began gaining consideration and began going viral. On Saturday – someday after her WTA Finals loss to Zheng – the Czech tennis star did not make any responses. However on Sunday morning, she confirmed that she was conscious of what was mentioned about her on air and slammed it as “disappointing” and “unprofessional commentary.”
“You might need heard concerning the latest feedback made on Tennis Channel through the WTA Finals protection that centered on my look moderately than my efficiency. As an athlete who has devoted herself to this sport, it was disappointing to see any such unprofessional commentary,” Krejcikova wrote on X.
“This isn’t the primary time one thing like that is taking place in sports activities world. I’ve usually chosen to not converse up, however I imagine it’s time to deal with the necessity for respect and professionalism in sports activities media. These moments distract from the true essence of sport and the dedication all athletes deliver to the sphere. I like tennis deeply, and I need to see it represented in a means that honors the dedication we make to compete at this degree.”
Saville approves Krejcikova’s transfer
Even earlier than the two-time Grand Slam finalist reacted to the controversial remark, many got here to her protection and known as for Wertheim to be sacked from Tennis Channel. After her assertion, the help solely obtained larger.
And fellow WTA participant and former world No. 20 Saville totally supported the 28-year-old’s transfer and message.
“I’m glad that Barbs did not let it fly underneath the radar. Excellent assertion too,” Saville wrote on X.
I’m glad that Barbs did not let it fly underneath the radar. Excellent assertion too 👏👏 https://t.co/IlkMs38WMP
— Daria Saville (@Daria_gav) November 11, 2024
In the meantime, the WTA additionally addressed the incident, totally standing behind Krejcikova and underling that gamers should be handled with respect in each scenario.
“There is no such thing as a place in sport for inappropriate feedback about feminine athletes. The WTA stands in full help of Barbora’s highly effective name for respect. This ought to be the norm for all ladies in all working environments. Respect is due without any consideration, not a privilege to be earned,” the WTA mentioned in a press release.
Tennis Channel made a robust transfer, Wertheim additionally despatched out a press release
Shortly after Krejcikova known as out one in every of their members, Tennis Channel reached out to the two-time Grand Slam champion and apologized. Additionally, they indefinitely eliminated the analyst from his work on their community.
With regards to Wertheim, he admitted that he regretted what he mentioned and that it shouldn’t have occurred. Additionally, he claimed that he personally apologized to the 2024 Wimbledon champion.
“Throughout a Tennis Channel studio present on Friday, I made some deeply regrettable feedback off-air. I acknowledge them. I apologise for them. I reached out instantly and apologized to the participant. What occurred? I joined the present by Zoom. In rehearsal we have been proven a graphic of a participant who had simply competed. It confirmed her at an angle that exaggerated her brow,” Wertheim mentioned in a written message posted on X.
“Just a few moments later, I used to be advised to border up my Zoom. I appeared on the low digital camera angle and joked that it made my brow resemble the photograph of the participant in query. Somebody within the management room chimed in and I bantered again. Although this was a non-public rehearsal, this trade inadvertently, and with out context, made it to dwell air. I understand: I’m not the sufferer right here. It was neither skilled nor charitable nor reflective of the particular person I attempt to be. I’m accountable. I personal this. I’m sorry.”
When Krejcikova determined to publicly handle the viral video, she completely wished to be heard and a few actions to be taken. Contemplating that was precisely what occurred, it’s protected to say that the 28-year-old’s transfer wasn’t for nothing as a result of it led to reactions and public siding together with her.
