Jessica Pegula's hot mic remarks on Mirra Andreeva draw attention ahead of WTA Finals
Jessica Pegula's overheard remarks calling Mirra Andreeva a diva have drawn attention ahead of the WTA Finals in Indian Wells.
American player Jessica Pegula was apparently unaware that a private conversation with her coach on a practice court at Indian Wells was being picked up by a microphone. In the exchange, which was reported afterward, Pegula discussed French Open champion Mirra Andreeva, reportedly calling her a diva.
The reported comments also criticized Andreeva's coach, Conchita Martinez, for allowing the behavior. According to the reports, Pegula said: "Andreeva is a diva. She needs to be humble. I've lost a little respect for Conchita. She eggs on her behavior." Some parts of the recording are hard to make out.
Context and reaction
Pegula was not speaking at a press conference, and she believed she was talking privately. Tennis Channel commentator Lindsay Davenport has also spoken publicly about Andreeva's treatment of Martinez during matches. Pegula serves as the WTA Players' Council representative, and her remarks have been discussed widely online.
The WTA Finals have already been marked by other tensions. Elina Svitolina has had a dispute with Andreeva and Aryna Sabalenka over the war in Ukraine, and the wider relationship between Pegula and Andreeva has also drawn attention.
What comes next
Pegula is expected to be asked about the conversation in the media before the opening round-robin matches on Sunday. She hosts "The Player's Box" podcast with Madison Keys, Jennifer Brady and Desirae Krawczyk, and she may address the topic there as well.
The WTA Finals are being held in Indian Wells from November 8 to 15, and the groups have been set. Pegula and Andreeva are not in the same group, so they could only meet if both reached the final.