NEWS
Broadcaster employee causes TV scandal with Sabalenka comment
A journalist didn't realize his microphone was still on and badmouthed the Belarusian.
The incident occurred before Aryna Sabalenka's first match at the WTA Finals against Karolina Muchova.
The Belarusian blew a kiss to TV viewers during the warm-up, after which the scandal unfolded. Following that scene, a man's voice could be heard in the background of the "beIN Sports" broadcast.
The staff member had apparently not realized his microphone was turned on. "Look, look, look, she is terrible," could be clearly heard. According to multiple consistent media reports, the journalist involved was Matthieu Solier.
The clip spread like wildfire on social media and triggered a wave of outrage.
"Strongly condemn the remarks"
The network responded with a public apology. Florent Houzot, programming director at "beIN Sports", firmly condemned the statement: "I regret the remarks broadcast live this evening during the WTA Finals coverage and strongly condemn them. These comments do not reflect the values of beIN SPORTS. I reaffirm our commitment to respectful treatment of all athletes and contributors to our broadcasts."
The journalist himself has not yet commented on the incident. Whether there will be disciplinary consequences also remains unclear. Sabalenka appeared unfazed by the incident and defeated Muchova in straight sets.
What makes it particularly sensitive: "beIN Sports" only recently announced a multi-year contract to broadcast the ATP Tour in France.
