Australian Open Update: Eugenie Bouchard Asked to Twirl, Sparks Sexism Controversy

By Cheri Cheng - 22 Jan '15 09:38AM

A single question has created quite a stir at the Australian Open.

After getting through Round 2 of play, a reported asked seven-ranked Eugenie Bouchard to twirl on camera in order to show of her tennis dress.

The 20-year-old from Canada stated that the request was "very unexpected," adding that "it was funny" to have an old guy asking her to twirl. Bouchard, who did not appear to be offended by the request, twirled on camera.

Prior to that match, the world number one, Serena Williams was asked the same question by the same reporter after her Round 1 victory.

"I didn't really want to twirl because I was just like, you know, I don't need all the extra attention," Williams commented.

Within hours after Bouchard was asked that question, conversations regarding sexism on social media erupted. Some stated that the male reporter was sexist while others asked whether or not that same reporter would have asked male tennis players to twirl and show of their outfit.

"A commentator asked me to twirl. I wouldn't ask Rafa [Nadal] or Roger [Federer] to twirl. Whether it's sexist or not, I don't know," Williams had commented after defeating Vera Zvonareva to advance to the third round of the tournament.

Williams, who is aiming for her 19th career Grand Slam singles title, added, "Life is far too short to focus on that [controversy]. Whether I twirl or not, it's not the end of the world."

Prior to the controversy that ignited on social media, Bouchard and two-time Australian Open champion, Victoria Azarenka tweeted how much they liked Williams' dress.

In regards to her dress, Williams had said, "Throughout the years we went for a more conservative look. This year we really wanted to bring out a powerful woman and a strong woman, like I said. You can be beautiful and powerful at the same time."

Whether or not the Australian Open or the reporter will comment on the question is still up in the air. One thing for sure is there will be no more twirling requests.