(VIDEO) 16-year-old Czech tennis star Bejlek responds after outrage over 'inappropriate' celebrations involving father and coach
WTAWednesday, 31 August 2022 at 16:50
Sara Bejlek produced a brilliant display to defeat Heather Watson and reach the Main Draw at the US Open but despite joining a contingent of Czech stars in moving through, it was the post match celebration that garnered much more interest.
Bejlek over the moon went over to her father and also her coach and gave them a big hug, with the 16-year-old being patted numerous times by both on the backside.
Slamming this incident, the account that posted the video dubbed it as 'creepy' and pointed out the even more shocking part that she is 16.
Commenting on the incident, a user on social media said: "There's absolutely no reason to touch a 16yo girl on her butt like that. It's beyond inappropriate. As the video progressed it got worse and worse. And that's not because I see her as 'sexual object' or am projecting as some in comments and quotes are alluding."
Speaking to iSport, Bejlek addressed the incident and was aware of the comments online.
"Of course, I saw the video. It was a spontaneous reaction of the whole team. We rejoiced," she told the outlet.
"It may certainly seem inconvenient and uncomfortable to some, but we have already discussed it with the team. It won't happen again."
When asked if this impacted her in losing to Liudmila Samsonova, she said it wasn't the case.
"Not at all. Dad is my dad and always will be. And I've known the coach since I was eight years old. He tapes me, he massages me.
"If something similar happened in the Czech Republic, no one would deal with it. But since we are in America, everyone comments on it. But as I say, we talked and it won't happen again."
Samuel GillEditor-in-Chief
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of TennisUpToDate.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces across the TennisUpToDate network, playing a central role in the daily operation and development of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has a broad background in tennis media. In his current role, he works closely with editors and writers to ensure coverage meets clear journalistic standards, with particular attention to verification, consistency, and timely updates when new information becomes available.
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