By Richard Pagliaro | @Tennis_Now | Monday, November 11, 2024
Photo credit: David Buchan/Getty
Tennis Channel has sidelined Jon Wertheim indefinitely citing “unprofessional” conduct.
The Santa Monica-based TC announced it has suspended clong-time commentator Jon Wertheim after his critical comment about Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova’s physical appearance.
More: WADA Appeals Sinner’s Doping Case, Seeks Ban for World No. 1
The network says Wertheim, who issued an apology on social media, has apologized to two-time Grand Slam singles champion Krejcikova, widely regarded as one of the most humble major champions.
“Jon has dedicated his career to shining a light on and growing this sport and has been a valued member of our family and the tennis community,” TC said in a statement. “That said, Tennis Channel holds its employees to a standard of respectfulness for others at all times, a standard that was not met in this moment.”
Wertheim mocked Krejickova’s forehead during what he said he thought was a rehearsal for the network’s TC Live show.
Jon Wertheim insults Barbora Krejcikova by making fun of her appearance on live TV@Olly_Tennis_ @josemorgado @Welovetennis @BenoitMaylinAre you going to talk about it?
As journalists, do you think it’s appropriate?pic.twitter.com/uBoxMGld9k
— Dan Gernez (@GernezDan) November 9, 2024
“Who do you think I am? Barbora Krejcikova?” Wertheim said. “Look at the forehead when Krejcikova and Zheng take the court.”
The mockery prompted outrage and pushback from fans and Krejcikova herself.
“As an athlete who has dedicated herself to this sport, it was disappointing to see this type of unprofessional commentary,” Krejcikova said. “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.”
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 (cont.)
— Barbora Krejcikova (@BKrejcikova) November 10, 2024
3/3
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.
— Barbora Krejcikova…
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at Blog RSS…