Australian Open organisers have defended their use of behind-the-scenes cameras after World No.3 Coco Gauff’s now infamous racquet smash ignited a fierce debate on privacy around the tennis world. The American has received strong support from a number of the world’s best players after calling for changes to the number of cameras being used and where they are stationed around Melbourne Park.
But Tennis Australia says the behind-the-scenes cameras are “designed to provide fans with a deeper connection to the athletes”. Australian Open organisers claim it also helps players build their sporting brands, with camera access more restricted at the other majors.
Australian Open bosses have defended the number of behind-the-scenes cameras being used at Melbourne Park after Coco Gauff’s meltdown sparked a major privacy debate. Pic: Getty/ESPN
“Striking the right balance between showcasing the personalities and skills of the players, while ensuring their comfort and privacy is a priority,” TA said in a statement. Organisers insist they “value” the feedback from players and want to “work collaboratively” with them in the wake of the backlash.
Gauff was livid after a hugely disappointing straight-sets loss to Elina Svitolina in the quarter-finals. But the 21-yer-old waited until she was in a ‘back-stage’ area at Melbourne Park reserved for players and officials only, before taking out her frustrations on the racquet.
The American thought no one would see her but cameras picked up the explosive incident and the footage was beamed around the world. “I tried to go somewhere where they wouldn’t broadcast it, but obviously they did,” Gauff said afterwards. “Maybe some conversations can be had because I feel like at this tournament, the only private place we have is the locker room.”
Top stars joins Coco Gauff in calling for more privacy
Gauff’s calls for more privacy have been echoed by fellow WTA stars Iga Swiatek and Jessica Pegula, as well as 24-time major winner Novak Djokovic. Six-time grand slam champ Swiatek slammed the number of behind-the-scenes cameras after her quarter-final defeat, and claimed players are being watched “like animals in the zoo”.
Semi-finalist Pegula agreed the constant filming was an “invasion of privacy” and needs to be “cut back”. Pegula is a member of the WTA players’ council and says the issue has been discussed previously, but seems to have gotten “even worse” at this year’s Australian Open.
Top women’s players Iga Swiatek (L) and Jessica Pegula (R) are among those who’ve criticised the number of behind-the-scenes cameras at the Australian Open. Pic: Getty
“We were talking about cameras years ago,” Pegula said. “I remember Madison Keys, her number one priority on council was like ‘we have to stop with these cameras, this is crazy’… but this year it feels even worse.
“The only time you’re not being recorded is when you are going to shower and go to the bathroom. It seems to be worse here than maybe other years, so I think now it’s going to definitely be talked about and highlighted again moving forward.”
Djokovic is also “against” the number of cameras being used at Melbourne Park and “empathised” with Gauff after her meltdown. “I know what it feels like to break a racquet. I’ve done it a few times in my career,” Djokovic said after reaching the semi-finals.
“I know how it is to be frustrated, particularly after a match where you underperform… And I agree with her. It’s really sad that you can’t move away anywhere and hide and fume out your frustration, your anger, in a way that won’t be captured by a camera.”
with agencies