Organizers of the Madrid Open have issued an apology to players and fans for their “unacceptable decision” not to allow the women’s doubles finalists to give presentation speeches.
Victoria Azarenka and Beatriz Haddad Maia had defeated Jessica Pegula and Coco Gauff 6-1 6-4 on Sunday, but only the singles and men’s doubles finalists were given the opportunity to address the crowd.
The tournament’s CEO, Gerard Tsobanian, said they have apologized to the four players involved and are reviewing their protocols with the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA).
The decision was criticized by Pegula and Azarenka, with the Professional Tennis Players’ Association stating that the players were denied their right to freedom of expression.
The incident also sparked allegations of sexism at the tournament due to criticism of ball girls’ outfits and differences in the sizes of the birthday cakes presented to the men’s and women’s champions, Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka.
