ESPN's Malika Andrews, best known for her NBA coverage, has been anchoring the network's U.S. Open coverage this year. But her foray into tennis commentary is drawing sharp criticism from fans who say she doesn't know the sport.
Andrews, who has also covered the Australian Open and Wimbledon, sparked outrage on Sunday night when she suggested that women's star Elena Rybakina had the "easiest" path to the title in Flushing Meadows.
"Malika Andrews of ESPN just said that Elena Rybakina has the 'easiest' path to the U.S. Open Title," one fan wrote on X, formerly Twitter. "Has Malika Andrews looked at Aryna Sabalenka's draw? Do you even know tennis, lady?"
The backlash quickly spread across social media, with many fans questioning Andrews' credentials and the network's decision to put her on tennis.
"She does not know tennis and is the most DEI commentator pick I've ever seen. Got the job because both Sloan and Taylor were unavailable due to their playing in the event. ESPN made a mockery of tennis coverage year after year," one critic posted.
Others, however, came to Andrews' defense, noting that she was likely referring to Rybakina's path to the world No. 1 ranking, not the tournament itself. "I think she was referring to easiest path in the race for No. 1. She followed up it up with talking about how she won't have to depend on anyone else (where as everyone else is dependent on Rybakina losing)," one supporter explained.
The controversy is just the latest in a series of US Open fan backlashes, from player celebrations to fashion choices to media obligations. Andrews, who has been a rising star at ESPN, is now learning that tennis fans are just as passionate—and vocal—as any in sports.
As the U.S. Open heads into its second week, with quarterfinals starting Tuesday, Andrews will continue to face scrutiny. But as any broadcaster knows, every word on air is subject to dissection. Whether she adjusts her commentary or doubles down, the spotlight isn't going away.
For now, tennis fans are making their voices heard, and Andrews is in the crosshairs.
