Allegations of rape in tennis: national coach Barbara Rittner hopes for more openness

Bouteyre had denied forcing Ferro into any sexual activity. According to his lawyer, the Frenchman considered the attacks to be a “love story”. Bouteyre, who had also worked with his compatriot Alizé Cornet, was the private trainer of the now 25-year-old Ferro and accompanied her to tournaments, sometimes abroad.

“Obviously it happens more often than I thought,” said Rittner, shocked, emphasizing the importance of dealing transparently with such experiences. “In general, it is important that this topic is discussed. The more openly, the better,” said Rittner.

contacts in the associations

Azarenka also saw the media representatives as responsible. “Do your research, help people open up more. Hopefully we can eradicate these types of incidents bit by bit,” said the 33-year-old.

According to Rittner, the organizations also have an important role to play here. “At the DTB we have had a special contact person who is trained in this direction for some time,” she explained. “I believe that it is generally normal for associations to have certain contact persons who cover different fields,” explained Rittner, “and also on this topic.”

You have to convey to the players that there is someone who has an open ear and is subject to confidentiality, “whom you can trust,” explained Rittner. At the same time, she held the trainers accountable.

Similar reports in swimming

It is important to build a relationship of trust with the players “so that they open up and are brave enough to report such possible attacks so that action can be taken quickly.”