WTA removes practice livestreams after Pegula’s remarks captured
The WTA has taken down all practice‑court livestreams from its YouTube channel and issued an apology after a live audio feed captured American player Jessica Pegula calling Russian Mirra Andreeva a “diva” and questioning her coach. The incident occurred during a practice session at Indian Wells Tennis Garden in California, where microphones were active without player notice. Pegula said she was unaware the conversation was being broadcast and hopes the episode will prompt stronger privacy safeguards.
Key facts
- Andreeva had won four straight games against Pegula in the practice session.
- Pegula’s coach Mark Knowles was also captured in the audio recording.
- The WTA chair announced that audio recording on practice courts is now switched off.
- Pegula said the episode could help push for stronger player privacy measures.
- Coco Gauff previously called for more privacy after cameras filmed her on court in January.
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Why it matters
It highlights player privacy gaps in live sports broadcasting.
What changed
First published from Yahoo Sports, The Independent, CNA and Asharq Al-Awsat