WTA apologises after Pegula caught on open microphone criticising Andreeva

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 5 Nov, 20:10 · Archive

The WTA apologised after accidentally livestreaming Jessica Pegula making critical remarks about French Open champion Mirra Andreeva during practice.

The Women's Tennis Association said it took 'full responsibility' for failing to inform players that microphones were active on practice courts ahead of the season-ending WTA Finals at Indian Wells, California. Practice sessions were being livestreamed on the WTA's YouTube channel, with microphones capturing a conversation between world No.5 Pegula and her coach Mark Knowles.

Pegula was heard calling the 19-year-old Andreeva a 'diva' and saying she had lost respect for Andreeva's coach Conchita Martinez for not calling out her behaviour. Pegula also said Andreeva would be better than fellow American Coco Gauff if she had the same mentality. Another practice session featured world No.1 Elena Rybakina having an apparent spat with her coach.

The WTA removed recordings of Wednesday's practice sessions from YouTube, although clips had already circulated online. Pegula's representative told The Athletic that the American had 'absolutely no idea' her conversation was being livestreamed and never expected a private discussion during practice to be made public. The representative added that Pegula had contacted those involved to apologise.

In the same conversation, Pegula also praised Andreeva, describing the world No.3 as 'wonderful' and 'smart'. The WTA Finals, featuring the best eight singles players and doubles teams of the year, begins on Sunday.

How it is being reported

• Loose lips cause WTA row as "she's a diva" remark heardThe WTA has apologised after its livestream caught world No.5 Jessica Pegula making critical comments at practice about French Open champion Mirra Andreeva.The West Australian · 5 Nov, 19:38
• Loose lips cause WTA row as "she's a diva" remark heardThe WTA has apologised after its livestream caught world No.5 Jessica Pegula making critical comments at practice about French Open champion Mirra Andreeva.Perth Now · 5 Nov, 19:38

In this story: Jessica Pegula · Mirra Andreeva · Conchita Martinez · Elena Rybakina · WTA · Indian Wells

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