NEW YORK (AP) — Tennis Channel has removed analyst Jon Wertheim from the air “indefinitely” after Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova criticized him on social media for making a comment that she felt focused on her appearance rather than her athletic achievements.
In a statement released Sunday, the network condemned Wertheim’s “inappropriate comment” and emphasized that it holds its staff to a high standard of respect, which was not met in this instance.
Wertheim issued an apology, acknowledging that his “deeply regrettable comments off-air” had mistakenly made it to the live broadcast.
Krejcikova, who participated in the WTA Finals last week, is a 28-year-old Czech player who claimed her first Grand Slam singles title at the 2020 French Open and has won seven major doubles titles.
“As an athlete who has committed herself to this sport, it was disappointing to hear this kind of unprofessional commentary,” Krejcikova wrote in a social media post. “This isn’t the first time something like this has happened in the 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 athletes bring to their craft. I love tennis deeply and want to see it represented in a way that honors the hard work and commitment of all players.”
