Tennis pro Agnieszka Radwanska was dropped as ambassador for a Polish Catholic Youth Group, known as Youth Crusade, after racy photos of the star were released in ESPN Magazine's Body Issue.
The Catholic Youth Group defended its decision to remove Radwanska from her position, explaining that the 24-year-old's photos were not in line with her position within the group. Members of the church group also called out ESPN and its magazine publishers for promoting "immoral behavior" for releasing such revealing photos.
The tennis star was relieved of her duties as spokesperson following her appearance in the magazine's 2013 edition.
Father Marek Dziwiecki, Senior Catholic priest and member of the Catholic Youth Group, has released the official statement on behalf of the group. The group said it was a shame that someone like Radwanska was going against the objective of the group, and claimed that by appearing in the magazine Radwanska was "promoting the mentality of men looking at a woman as a thing," reported the Business Insider.
In ESPN's recent Body Issue, the tennis star shows off her fit body in the photo shoot, with several photos of Radwanska featuring her in the pool, another in a floating raft, and so on, but still, the Youth Group's position seems a bit harsh; Radwanska never reveals anything aside from teasing some skin. ESPN officials also came to the tennis star's defense, insisting the photos were no more revealing than typical photos of swimwear.
Aside from Radwanska, several other famous athletes from various sporting fields are also featured in the magazine.
As of now, Radwanska has not issued an official statement regarding the recent move by the Catholic Youth Group. There is no current if she will continue to support the religious group.