U.S. actress Sydney Sweeney is once again under fire for a recent commercial. This time, she has sparked outrage among female athletes globally with a sports betting ad featuring her in the nude alongside her response.
The advertisement, promoting Novig, a sports-focused prediction exchange, was released online on September 9 and garnered nearly 39 million views by Monday. In the ad, Sweeney is seen holding various sports equipment strategically to cover her body, set against a backdrop of bass music.
The controversial ad drew criticism from female athletes and Olympians who condemned it for sexualizing women in sports. The backlash transcended borders and various sports, with many athletes sharing videos addressing Sweeney on social media platforms.
Canadian athletes also joined the chorus of disapproval, with Team Canada showcasing their female athletes in a video emphasizing hard work and dedication. Athletes like Sophia Jensen, Madeline Schizas, and Molly Carlson also took to social media to express their disappointment with the ad and highlight the true essence of women in sports.
The ad also received global attention, with athletes from different countries speaking out against it. Athletes like Gracie Kramer from the U.S., Amy Hunt from the UK, and Ariarne Titmus from Australia criticized the ad for its portrayal of women in sports.
Novig’s CEO, Jacob Fortinsky, commended the ad for spotlighting a sports-centric platform. Sweeney, in a press release on the same day as the ad launch, described the campaign as a creative concept that showcases confidence and humor.
This is not the first time Sweeney has faced backlash for an ad. Last year, an American Eagle advertisement featuring her was criticized for potentially promoting harmful beauty standards. Sweeney’s history of controversial ads has stirred debates on the portrayal of women in media, particularly in the realm of sports.
The latest ad has reignited discussions on the sexualization of female athletes and the need to focus on their skills and achievements rather than their appearance. Female athletes continue to advocate for equal representation and respect in the sporting world amidst ongoing challenges and stereotypes.
