Jessica Pegula has spoken for the first time since she was overheard calling Mirra Andreeva a “diva”, while the Russian has also addressed the comment.

Andreeva and Pegula, who are ranked third and fifth respectively, are both in Indian Wells preparing for the 2026 WTA Finals, which will get underway on Sunday.

During a practice session livestreamed by the WTA, Pegula was critical of Andreeva while speaking to her coach Mark Knowles.

“I’ve lost a little respect for her (Andreeva) because I’m like, this girl – I think she’s a nice girl – she’s just a diva. She needs to be humbled,” said Pegula.

“I lost respect for her. She’s a good girl, but she needs to mature. I don’t know if it’s because she doesn’t know how to handle it.

“If I were her coach and my player had just played four great games, she’s up 4-0, she gets mad at me and chases me down… I’d tell her not to talk to me like that.”

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Pegula did not realise on-court microphones in Indian Wells were recording the conversation.

The WTA responded by issuing an apology for not informing players that microphones were live during practice sessions.

“The WTA takes full responsibility for failing to inform our players and their teams that microphones, in place to give fans a livestream of the players’ practice, were active on the courts at the WTA Finals,” a statement read.

“We sincerely apologise for failing to meet our responsibility to ensure players and coaches were properly informed.”

In an interview with ESPN, Pegula confirmed she was unaware that her chat with Knowles was being recorded and broadcast.

“Obviously I had no idea and was not informed that audio was being recorded. But it is what it is,” the American said.

The 32-year-old added that it was an “unfortunate situation.”

Andreeva shared a series of photos from the WTA Finals photoshoot, and she referenced Pegula’s comment by captioning an image of her with the American with the word “DIVAS.”

Pegula replied: “*Divas in Chanel*”

The humorous exchange suggests there is no animosity between the two WTA stars despite the controversy.

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