The US Open roars on, with the men’s and women’s singles events entering the second week at Flushing Meadows.
Several shocks have taken place in the US Open, with men’s stars Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic having both fallen early.
In the women’s singles meanwhile, world number one Iga Swiatek and defending champion Coco Gauff remain at Flushing Meadows.
But the event certainly hasn’t been without controversy, as is often the case, with Chris Evert among those causing a stir.
The six-time US Open champion came under fire for her comments about Karolina Muchova, saying: “She plays like a guy. She wants to play like a guy.
“The guys have bigger serves than the women, they have better volleys for the most part, they move a little bit better.”
Chris Evert apologises to Ons Jabeur after US Open comments
And quick to call her out was current star Ons Jabeur, who was forced to withdraw from the tournament due to injury.
Taking to X to defend her WTA counterpart, Jabeur wrote: “Muchova is an amazing talented player. She doesn’t have to be a guy to have great serve, volley or movement. Can we please stop stereotyping based on gender?”
READ MORE: How much prize money the 2024 US Open will pay players and every winner
Evert has now attempted to explain her comments, saying: “I apologize if I offended you both, certainly not my intention.
“The power, mobility, and athleticism has improved so much, and many women I interview have men idols who they aspire to play like. Again, maybe my delivery could’ve been better, so sorry!”
Jessica Pegula and Ben Shelton join the debate at the US Open
Conversations about similarities and differences between men’s and women’s tennis have often cropped up at majors this year, and the US Open has been no different.
Jessica Pegula says women’s tennis is more entertaining, while Ben Shelton says Coco Gauff has qualities that resemble a male player.
READ MORE: The Tennis Gazette’s expert writers predict every key 2024 US Open storyline
It has been another hugely exciting tournament, with the controversy and drama certain to continue over the second week.
Gauff is, of course, seeking to defend her 2023 title, having beaten Aryna Sabalenka for her maiden Grand Slam success.
Men’s defending champion Djokovic meanwhile is out, leaving the door wide open for a new face to lift the trophy.
Receive exclusive tennis news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
