Jack Draper: Eugenie Bouchard Exposes ‘Negative’ Media’s Unwarranted ‘Hate’ That Prompted Her to Make ‘Crucified’ Statement

Eugenie Bouchard’s relationship with fans has been quite turbulent over the past 10 years. However, as Jack Draper’s “I quite enjoy being in front of the camera” surfaced online, Bouchard couldn’t help but chime in to add her views on the matter. Her comment garnered a lot of attention from the tennis world as she compared the current off-court scenarios in tennis with those of a decade ago. Further explaining her perspective on the subject, the 30-year-old player illustrated the reason behind her response.

During the June 20th episode of the Tennis Channel Live Podcast, Steve Weissman asked the Canadian player about her comment on Draper’s Vogue interview statements. Bouchard, who commented, “If I had said this 10 years ago I would have been crucified 😂” on the X post revealing the Brit’s statements, explained her reasons behind her views.

“Back in the day it was very focused on only tennis and doing anything off the court was seen as negative. Nowadays, it’s actually the complete reversal where people are like if you are not doing more than just tennis what are you doing? Where is your charity, where is your makeup line? So I am happy that the world has come to this but I wish I didn’t get so much hate back in the day,” the former Wimbledon finalist stated. The original post, shared by Jose Morgado, included the British No. 1’s buzz cut look, posing in different backgrounds wearing black, green, and white outfits. The Stuttgart Open champion also added, “If I’m looking good, that is.” 

On the other hand, Bouchard’s statements highlight a different aspect of the dual standards in the tennis world. Known for dazzling fashion statements, Bouchard’s interest in mixing tennis with a tinge of fashion grew when she saw Anna Kournikova’s style statements. However, she faced heavy criticism for her interest in other areas than tennis during her time.

Even when the then-22-year-old posed for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, people had a different opinion. They urged her to focus on her tennis career, rather than fashion. Eugenie Bouchard did not pay heed to any of it. Not only that, even in 2019, Bouchard revealed how she faced backlash for posting bikini pictures on her social media.

“And I really try to refrain from posting bikini pictures, I really do. Apparently, if you post that, it means you don’t play tennis or something.” Referring to all of this, Bouchard added that the scene has completely reversed now. With various players’ interests outside of tennis, like Serena Williams’ “Wyn Beauty” and many others, she explained how people appreciate players’ involvement in other fields as well while simultaneously playing tennis.

Not only makeup lines, but she also highlighted the charity that many players like Roger Federer ( the Roger Federer Foundation), and Rafael Nadal ( The Rafael Nadal Foundation) have brought to tennis. Although time has changed, a few years ago, Bouchard revealed that she regrets one thing about her tenure in tennis.

Eugenie Bouchard questions the criticism that came her way a few years ago

In 2017, Eugenie Bouchard appeared for an interview where she openly discussed the trolling that she has experienced over the years. Revealing how she wanted to accept more photoshoots and similar opportunities, she said, “I mean, why stop myself? There are things I said no to that I regret.”

Although she agreed that tennis is her “one true love,” the Canadian tennis pro had always wished to do more than just play on-court. Explaining her mindset, she further added, “It was definitely part of who I am, because I think it’s great. Why keep myself in a box? Why stop myself from trying to be everything I can be?”

Her love for fashion continues even today. A few months ago, she graced the Challengers LA premiere with her dazzling look. Apart from that, occasional glimpses of her fashion sense through her Instagram posts frequently delight fans. Eugenie Bouchard is undeterred by the criticism as she forges her own distinct journey in the fashion world.