Jessica Pegula's comments about Mirra Andreeva brings out WTA apology

The American world number four was caught making critical remarks about Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva, describing the 19-year-old as a "diva" while speaking to coach Mark Knowles during a practice session at Indian Wells.

Pegula also questioned the conduct of Andreeva's coach, former Wimbledon champion Conchita Martinez, asking why she had not intervened. The conversation was inadvertently broadcast through a WTA YouTube livestream after a courtside microphone picked up their exchange.

Camillo addressed the incident before Sunday's opening matches, apologising and blaming "several breakdowns in our execution of the livestream given our own policies and procedures".

She explained that the microphones were installed to capture ambient sounds, such as players striking tennis balls, rather than private conversations.

"I want to apologise on behalf of the entire WTA for these occurrences," Camillo said at a news conference on Friday.

"The WTA is sensitive to player privacy and has policies and procedures in place to balance players' needs for safe spaces with opportunities to bring fans closer to the game.

"There was a lack of advanced notice and clear signage to assist players about the recording equipment operating in the area."

"I want to specifically apologise to Jessica Pegula and Mark Knowles," she added.

"What happened was regrettable and unacceptable. Jess is one of the WTA's best advocates and biggest stars. She does not deserve this distraction."

The WTA Finals feature the eight leading women's singles players, divided into two round-robin groups before the knockout stages. 

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