TENNIS CHANNEL ANALYST TAKEN OFF AIR AFTER PLAYER FOREHEAD REMARK
An off-air comment has not only left a journalist red in the face but could also potentially cost him his job.
American journalist Jon Wertheim commented on female tennis player Barbora Krejcikova’s forehead. The remark was made during a private off-air conversation between Wertheim and a member of The Tennis Channel’s production crew.
Somehow the clip made it to air and many viewers heard the remark.
Once the news broke that the comment made it to air, Wertheim released a statement on X.
“I made some deeply regrettable comments off-air. I acknowledge them. I apologise for them.”
Krejcikova also posted her thoughts on X, calling the remark unprofessional.
“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.”
Both the Tennis Channel and Wertheim apologised to Krejckikova. Later that day, the Tennis Channel confirmed that Wertheim was immediately removed from the air and did not indicate when he would return.
Image credit: The Independent