Six-time main champion Iga Swiatek says gamers are being watched “like animals within the zoo” by behind-the-scenes cameras on the Australian Open.

Coco Gauff was captured smashing her racquet in a hall within the gamers’ space at Melbourne Park on Tuesday, main the American to name for extra privateness.

The Australian Open has proven footage from the gamers’ zone within the bowels of Rod Laver Area – which incorporates the health club, warm-up space and the hall from the locker room – since 2019.

Digicam entry is extra restricted on the different majors.

“Are we tennis gamers, or are we animals within the zoo the place they’re noticed even after they poop?” stated Poland’s Swiatek, who misplaced within the quarter-finals on Wednesday.

Semi-finalist Jessica Pegula described the fixed filming as an “invasion of privateness” that must be “in the reduction of”.

“You simply really feel such as you’re underneath a microscope consistently,” the American added.

Match organisers Tennis Australia advised BBC Sport the cameras are used to assist create a “deeper connection” between followers and gamers.

“Putting the appropriate stability between showcasing the personalities and expertise of the gamers, whereas guaranteeing their consolation and privateness is a precedence,” an announcement learn.