A reporter reported extensively on the alleged abuse of a tennis star. Now he must pay for it.

While the US Open begins in New York this week, the country’s busiest tennis journalist is staying at home in Washington and following the action on television.

After more than a decade of building a reputation as an astute sports reporter, Ben Rothenberg has become disillusioned. The grueling travel schedule, dwindling access to players and the rigors of freelance work have taken their toll.