“It was blatant sexism!” – Tennis Twitter CANCELS Madrid Open’s apology over the women’s doubles speech controversy

Tennis Twitter not satisfied with the Madrid Open apology.

“It was blatant sexism!” – Tennis Twitter CANCELS Madrid Open’s apology over the women’s doubles speech controversy

Victoria Azarenka alongside Coco Gauff, Jessica Pegula and Beatriz Hadad Maia (Image via Planet Sport)

In a fortnight filled with controversy, everyone had something to say. However, the authorities of the event kept quiet for a long time. Recently in a Twitter post, the CEO of the Mutua Madrid Open came out and apologized for the events that had unfolded.

The central issue addressed in that tweet was the women’s doubles final. The final has been infamous for the fact that the finalists were not allowed to give their post-match speeches. Many expressed disappointment and felt that it was very unfair to the players.

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A few also called the entire debacle an event of sexism. This call came through as Carlos Alcaraz was allowed to give a speech that day after his final.

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Coming back to the apology by the event CEO, the tweet read, “We sincerely apologise to all the players and fans who expect more of the Mutua Madrid Open tournament. Not giving our women’s doubles finalists the chance to address their fans at the end of the match was unacceptable and we have apologized directly to Victoria, Beatriz… Coco and Jessica. We are working internally and with the WTA to review our protocols and are committed to improving our process moving forward. We made a mistake and this will not ever happen again.” Gerard Tsobanian, CEO of the Mutua Madrid Open.

An apology was due for many reasons. The 2023 Mutua Madrid Open has been everything but tennis. From the ‘cakegate’ to Swiatek’s remarks after the final to ball models not wearing mini skirts for the final. Not to forget the women’s doubles finale speeches being cut which is the main reason behind the apology tweet. Victoria Azarenka and Beatriz Hadad Maia did beat Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula in the final 6-1 6-4. Unfortunately, their success wasn’t the main topic for long.

Related: Coco Gauff joins campaign against Madrid Open’s decision to curb speech of WTA players, says they can’t ‘cut’ anyone from addressing the crowd

Tennis Twitter not convinced by the apology

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Victoria Azarenka and Beatriz Hadad Maia (Image via CNN)

The apology hasn’t gone well with the Tennis Twitter Community. Many feel that the apology lacks genuine. Many also feel the apology has just been issued to bury the matter.

Sharing a wide spectrum of reactions online, here’s what fans have to say:

The Madrid Open certainly was a controversial one this time. The apology was necessary however an improvement is the best solution. Fans would love to see the 2024 edition be an improved one.

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