Sydney Sweeney sports betting ad faces backlash from athletes and experts
Psychologists and Olympic athletes have criticized Sydney Sweeney's nearly nude advertisement for sports betting company Novig, calling it regressive and harmful.
Sydney Sweeney has drawn fierce criticism for her advertisement for betting company Novig. The ad shows her nearly nude while straddling a basketball ring and holding sports equipment.
Olympic gold medallist Ariarne Titmus called it only a kick in the face to every female athlete. She questioned what it teaches young people about sport.
Experts say the campaign is regressive. It sends the wrong message.
Psychologist Kerstin Anderson-Ridge said young boys watching sport should think about female athletes' talent and discipline. Not just appearance.
Psychotherapist Julie Sweet said the ad was deeply regressive. A sports-betting company used a sexualized female body to sell a gambling product.
Counsellor Jacintha Field noted that several female athletes are exhausted from fighting to be taken seriously for their achievements rather than their looks.
- Novig sports betting company
- Advertiser
- Ariarne Titmus, Olympic gold medallist
- Athlete critic
Why it mattersThe ad reignites debate about whether advertising is moving backwards in how it portrays female athletes and what values it teaches young people.
AustraliaAustralian athletes and mental health professionals are raising concerns about advertising standards in Australian sports betting and how it affects public attitudes toward female sport.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 4 d ago
