American tennis journalist Jon Wertheim has come under fire over disparaging remarks he made about Barbora Krejcikova during the WTA Finals with the reigning Wimbledon champion lamenting his “unprofessional behaviour”.

Wertheim made the comments during the Tennis Channel’s preview for Krejcikova’s semi-final clash against Zheng Qinwen at the season-ending tournament in Riyadh.

The journalist was apparently unaware that he was live on air and in a clip shared on social media he is overheard saying: “Who do you think I am? Barbora Krejcikova? Look at the forehead when Krejcikova and Zheng take the court. Eighthead.”

Wertheim has been widely condemned by the tennis community on social media and Krejcikova has also responded to the remarks.

But the two-time Grand Slam winner, who also won the 2021 French Open, kept her response classy as she wrote on X: “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 behaviour.

“This is not the first time something like this has happened in the world of sports. I have often chosen not to speak, 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 put on the field. I deeply love tennis and want to see it represented in a way that honours the commitment we undertake to compete at this level.”

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Wertheim, who also works for Sports Illustrated, has issued an apology.

He wrote: “During a Tennis Channel studio show on Friday, I made some deeply regrettable comments off-air. I acknowledge them. I apologise for them. I reached out immediately and apologised to the player.

“What happened? I joined the show by Zoom. In rehearsal, we were shown a graphic of a player who had just competed. It showed her at an angle that exaggerated her forehead. A few moments later, I was told to frame up my zoom.

“I looked at the low camera angle and joked that it made my forehead resemble the forehead of the player in question. Someone in the control room chimed in and I bantered back. Though this was a private rehearsal, this exchange inadvertently, and without context, made it to live air.

“I realise: I know I am not the victim here. It was neither professional nor charitable of the person I strive to be. I am accountable. I own this. I am sorry.”