Tennis media debates press conference absences for Iva Jovic and Learner Tien

The absence of press conferences for Iva Jovic and Learner Tien following their fourth-round US Open exits has triggered a debate regarding media scrutiny of athletes. Critics compared these departures to the controversy surrounding Venus and Serena Williams after their recent doubles exit. Journalists noted that Jovic and Tien reached the fourth round for the first time in their careers, though they did not face the same public pressure as the Williams sisters. Several reporters clarified that Jovic, Tien, and Ben Shelton did not actively skip their media obligations. Instead, members of the media chose not to request interviews to avoid using players' time after matches that lacked broader interest. The discussion highlights the difference in professional expectations for high-profile stars compared to rising players within the sport.

• 3:59 AMYahoo Sports — Iva Jovic, Learner Tien’s Media Absences at US Open Revive Tennis World Argument Over Venus, Serena Williams’ Snub