Karolina Muchova responds to Chris Evert's controversial 'plays like a man' remark directed at her during US Open

Karolina Muchova recently responded to Chris Evert's 'plays like a guy' statement about the Czech. Evert had previously opined on Muchova's play style and likened it to a male tennis player's.

A huge controversy erupted as the American, who has been commentating as a part of the ESPN team, said that Muchova played like a 'guy'. She was slammed by fans and tennis stars such as Ons Jabeur for stereotyping.

"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," Evert said.

Now Muchova has responded to the 18-time Grand Slam champion, following her win over Anastasia Potapova in the third round at the 2024 US Open. In a press conference, she said that she was lost for words searching for a response to Evert's remarks.

"I don't think I play like a man. I don't know what to say about that. I don't know exactly what Evert said, but obviously I have been inspired by players like Roger Federer or Novak Djokovic for my game and I like to follow what they do. Still, I was not prepared to answer this question," Muchova said.

Evert has issued an apology, saying that her tone was not correct.

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Karolina Muchova reached fourth round at the 2024 US Open

Karolina Muchova at the 2024 US Open (Image: Getty)

Karolina Muchova is through to the fourth round at the 2024 US Open, where she has set up a blockbuster match against Jasmine Paolini. The Czech started strong with a win over Katie Volynets in the first round. The duo exchanged a couple of serves amongst them before the 2023 French Open finalist eked out a 6-3, 7-5 victory.

Next, she knocked off the two-time US Open champion Naomi Osaka. The former World No. 8 dominated the Japanese to halt her campaign. Muchova won 6-3, 7-6(5) to clinch the victory.

In the third round, the Czech faced Anastasia Potapova, who could not put much of a challenge in front of the 2023 US Open semi-finalist. She claimed a 6-4, 6-2 victory to advance to the next round. She did not face any break of serves in this match.

Karolina Muchova faces a tough challenge in Jasmine Paolini in the fourth round. The Italian has reached two Grand Slam finals this year, at the French Open and Wimbledon. She also clinched the Olympic gold in women's doubles.