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WTA Backs Player Privacy as Australian Open Promises Camera Review

Officials face pressure to balance behind-the-scenes access with players’ need for camera‑free spaces.

Overview

  • Coco Gauff was filmed smashing a racket in a backstage corridor she believed was private after her quarterfinal loss, with the footage broadcast globally.
  • WTA chair Valerie Camillo called the privacy concerns "completely valid," noting the tour has already reduced off‑court cameras at its events and will seek a review with tournaments and broadcasters.
  • Australian Open director Craig Tiley said organizers have heard players and will adjust camera placement as needed, emphasizing that locker rooms, coaches’ rooms and recovery areas remain off‑limits.
  • Top players including Iga Świątek and Jessica Pegula criticized pervasive filming in corridors and warm‑up zones, arguing for defined spaces where players can prepare or decompress unseen.
  • Reactions varied beyond the WTA: Novak Djokovic agreed with the concerns but doubted camera reductions given commercial demand, while Pat Rafter urged using locker rooms and Ash Barty advised greater awareness of camera locations.