World number five Jessica Pegula was overheard calling Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva "a diva" following a practice session between the two players. The comment was picked up on a live stream during the WTA event in Madrid.
Pegula, 30, and Andreeva, 16, were practicing together when Pegula was heard making the remark. The interaction has drawn attention on social media.
Andreeva has been a rising star in women's tennis, breaking into the top 50 rankings in 2023. Pegula is a consistent top player, currently ranked fifth in the world.