Barbora Krejcikova criticizes Jon Wertheim after a forehead remark

Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova criticized a journalist's “unprofessional comment” after he made a comment about her appearance on the show.

During a Tennis Channel broadcast on Friday, Jon Wertheim commented on the Czech world number 13's forehead.

Krejcikova competed in the WTA Finals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where she was eliminated in the semifinals by eventual runner-up Zheng Qinwen.

Wertheim said his comments were “deeply regrettable” and that he had apologized to Krejcikova.

“You may have heard about the recent comments on Tennis Channel during coverage of the WTA Finals that focused on my appearance rather than my performance,” Krejcikova, 28, wrote on X., external

“As an athlete dedicated to the sport, it was disappointing to see these types of unprofessional comments.

“This is not the first time something like this has happened [the] Sports world. I have often chosen not to speak out, but I believe it is time to address the need for respect and professionalism in sports media.

“These moments distract from the true essence of the sport and the dedication that all athletes bring to the field.”

“I love tennis very much and I want it to be portrayed in a way that honors our commitment to competing at this level.”

In a statement Sunday, Wertheim said he made the comments at a rehearsal that was “accidentally” broadcast.

“During a Tennis Channel studio show on Friday, I made some deeply regrettable comments off-air. I acknowledge them. I apologize for that. I immediately reached out and apologized to the player,” he said on X, external.

“What happened? I joined the show via Zoom. During the rehearsal we were shown a graphic of a player who had just taken part in a competition. It showed her at an angle that exaggerated her forehead.”

“A few moments later I was told to adjust 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 joked back. Although it was a private rehearsal, this exchange made it into the live broadcast unintentionally and without context.

“It is clear to me: I am not the victim here. It wasn't professional, charitable, or reflective of the person I want to be. I bear responsibility. This is mine. I'm sorry.”

BBC Sport has contacted the Tennis Channel for comment.