The Current The Current

Why female athletes are mad at Sydney Sweeney’s ad

Sep 15, 2026 · 11m

Summary

Host Matt Galloway and culture critic B Kwame discuss the backlash against a new Novig sports betting ad featuring Sydney Sweeney in a nearly nude, sexually provocative pose. The conversation explores how the campaign delegitimizes women’s roles in sport by reducing them to objects of male desire, particularly at a time when female athletes are challenging traditional femininity. They also examine Sweeney’s status as an equity holder in the company and debate whether her choice to monetize her sexuality ultimately harms broader efforts for gender equity in sports.

Topics discussed

Granger shipping supplies commercial Podcast introduction and host welcome Overview of Sydney Sweeney's controversial ad Detailed description of the Novig ad content Guest's initial reaction and comparison to past ads Reactions from Canadian Olympic athletes Critique of over-sexualization in women's sports Context of rising popularity in women's leagues Athletes' focus on performance over appearance Sydney Sweeney's history of public controversy Connection between Euphoria and her public image Sweeney's role as equity holder and political stance Content creator perspective on the ad's intent Debate on choice feminism and societal cost The outrage economy and target demographics Conclusion and podcast sign-off
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