Iga Swiatek: Off-court cameras treat players like zoo animals

“The question is, are we tennis players or are we, like, animals in the zoo where they are observed even when they poop, you know? OK, that was exaggerating, obviously, but it would be nice to have some privacy,” said Swiatek, whose attempt to complete the career grand slam is over for the year after a 7-5, 6-1 defeat.

“It would be nice also to have your own process and not always be observed. I guess it would be nice to have some space where you can do that without the whole world watching.

“You know on Wimbledon there are courts like Aorangi [the practice courts], like people with accreditation can get there, but it’s without the fans. On Roland Garros there’s Jean-Bouin. There are some spaces that you can at least go when you need to, but there are some tournaments where it’s impossible and you are constantly observed, if not by the fans who can just buy some ground passes and go to your practice, then by the cameras.

“For sure it’s not simple. I don’t think it should be like that, because we’re tennis players. We’re meant to be watched on the court, you know, and in the press. That’s our job. It’s not our job [to] be a meme when you forget your accreditation. Oh, it’s funny, yeah, for sure. People have something to talk about, but for us I don’t think it’s necessary.”

Djokovic, 38, said: “I saw what happened with Coco. I empathise with her. I agree with her. You know, it’s really sad that you can’t basically move away anywhere and hide and fume out your frustration, your anger, in a way that won’t be captured by a camera. But we live in a society and in times where content is everything.”

Pegula, who beat Amanda Anisimova 6-2, 7-6 (7-1) to set up a semi-final against Rybakina, described the situation as crazy. “I’m not a fan of the cameras,” she said. “Coco wasn’t wrong when she said the only place [away from cameras] is the locker room, which is crazy. That’s something that we need to cut back on.

“I’ve had the tournament tell me to take down some stuff [on social media] because they own footage. I’m, like, are you serious? I post something that has to be taken down, but then you can see me on every single hallway that I’m walking in and post it online? It’s not cool.”

Wimbledon’s practice courts, Aorangi, are on site but are situated at the north side of the grounds, behind Henman Hill and away from visitors with tickets. Only accredited media are allowed to watch as the players hit balls or go through stretching routines.

At the Australian Open, players can practise on the outside courts that sit within the main grounds or on additional courts behind John Cain Arena at the eastern end of the site. Emma Raducanu, for example, warmed up on Court 10, opposite Sonay Kartal’s first-round match.

The Australian Open this year has expanded to become a three-week tournament, with the first week including an innovative “One Point Slam” competition, free entry for kids on the first day, qualifying matches and live music each night.

On Tuesday night Gauff was filmed smashing her racket into the floor seven times after her loss. “I tried to go somewhere where there were no cameras. I kind of have a thing [issue] with the broadcast,” said the 21-year-old American, who lost 6-1, 6-2 on Rod Laver Arena.

Tennis Australia said in a statement: “Striking the right balance between showcasing the personalities and skills of the players, while ensuring their comfort and privacy, is a priority for the AO. Each year we provide more private spaces for players where they can relax, focus on their preparation and work with their teams privately. This includes a player quiet room and strategy rooms, a sleep room, private locker rooms, medical, health, wellbeing and beauty rooms.

“Cameras capturing behind-the-scenes are positioned in operational areas where the players warm up, cool down and make their journey to and from the court. This is all designed to provide fans with a deeper connection to the athletes and help them build their fan base.”

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