Sophie Cunningham, guard for the Indiana Fever, expressed mixed feelings about the recent advertisement featuring actress Sydney Sweeney for Novig. While Cunningham found the ad itself somewhat puzzling, she questioned the intensity of the backlash from female athletes directed at Sweeney.
During an episode of her “No Hesitation” podcast, Cunningham offered a thoughtful take on the campaign that diverged from some of the stronger criticisms voiced by women in sports. “Do I like it? That particular ad? Not really. I mean, like, what are we doing?” Cunningham remarked, highlighting her skepticism toward the ad’s concept.
Despite her reservations about the advertisement, Cunningham was quick to clarify that her disapproval of the campaign does not extend to the actress personally. She emphasized that her critique was aimed at the ad’s content rather than Sweeney herself.
Sophie Cunningham questions Sydney Sweeney backlash
The Novig campaign, unveiled on September 9, showcases Sydney Sweeney posing with various sports equipment while wearing minimal or no clothing. The sports prediction company described the advertisement as a tribute to both sports and Sweeney’s connection to athletic culture.
The ad rapidly gained viral attention, but it also drew significant criticism from female athletes. Many argued that the sexualized portrayal detracted from the progress made toward respecting women in sports and their representation in media.