WTA takes blame after broadcasting Jessica Pegula comments about Mirra Andreeva

The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has issued a formal apology and expressed full responsibility following a controversial incident during a practice session ahead of the WTA Finals. American player Jessica Pegula, world No 5, was captured on live stream calling fellow competitor Mirra Andreeva, the Russian world No 3 and French Open champion, a "diva."

The audio was inadvertently broadcast as microphones were placed in the practice courts for fans to view the players' preparations without their knowledge. Pegula criticized Andreeva's behavior, stating that she needed to be "humbled" and she had lost respect for former Wimbledon champion Conchita Martinez, who is Andreeva's coach, for not addressing the issue.

Pegula also compared herself to American tennis star Coco Gauff, suggesting that Gauff's mentality would make her superior if she had Andreeva's attitude. The WTA has removed the practice sessions from YouTube and apologized for failing to inform players and their teams about the microphones. The incident occurred before the tournament, which features the eight top-ranked players, and has drawn comparisons to another heated argument involving world No 1 Elena Rybakina and her coach.