Aryna Sabalenka controversy erupts as broadcaster reported and forced to release statement

Aryna Sabalenka's first match at the WTA Finals was marred by controversy, which has resulted in a broadcaster being reported and forced to release a statement.

Aryna Sabalenka was criticised on beIN Sports by journalist Matthieu Solier (Image: Getty)

Aryna Sabalenka was called "horrible" during live coverage of the WTA Finals before her opening match against Karolina Muchova. French journalist Matthieu Solier was overheard saying of Sabalenka, "look, look, look, she's horrible," while a promotional video was playing during an ad break. Solier has worked for beIN SPORTS since April 2012, according to his LinkedIn profile, after previously working for L'Equipe TV. An account on X shared the clip online, a video that has received over 100,000 views, while also flagging it to the French Audiovisual and Digital Communication Regulatory Authority (Arcom). Florent Houzot, beIN SPORTS director of broadcast operations for programming and editorial, was also asked for his reaction.

Houzot said: "I regret and strongly condemn the remarks made live on air this evening during the WTA Finals broadcast. These comments do not reflect the values of beIN SPORTS. I reaffirm our commitment to treating all athletes and contributors on our broadcasts with respect."

He suspended commentator Daniel Bravo for just under a month earlier this year after making sexist remarks about Paris FC Féminines sporting director Gaetane Thiney. The former France international said "she is not very attentive" and "I have the impression that she was talking about lingerie", then corrected himself to say "clothes".

The editorial director said in a statement to AFP: "I informed Daniel Bravo this morning of his suspension with immediate effect, a decision that he understands perfectly. He obviously deeply regrets his remarks, and he called Gaetane to apologise."

Sabalenka has never won the WTA Finals in six appearances after losing in the final twice (Image: Getty)

It is unclear at the time of writing whether any further action will be taken against Solier. On the court, Sabalenka beat Muchova 7-6 (7-2), 7-5.

Speaking afterwards on court, she said of her opponent: "She's such an incredible player. Always tough battles. I was just trying to stay calm and focus point by point. She can come back any time. You have to be focused from beginning till the end. I'm super happy ‌with ⁠the level I played. To get the first win, it's really important. Great start."

In a separate interview with Sky Sports, Sabalenka added: "That was a tough battle, always tough matches against her. She's such a high IQ player I have to say, and every time you have to be focused, you have to be ready for anything and you have to play smart. I'm super happy that I was able to start with the win."

Aryna Sabalenka's first match at the WTA Finals was marred by controversy, which has resulted in a broadcaster being reported and forced to release a statement.

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