Caitlin Clark, a newly drafted player for the WNBA’s Indiana Fever, held her first press conference on Wednesday. She expressed her excitement about joining the team but encountered an uncomfortable moment just minutes into the conference. Gregg Doyel, a sports columnist, made a heart shape with his hands at Clark, leading to an awkward exchange where he attempted to be overly familiar. Many found Doyel’s behavior unprofessional, sexist, and creepy, highlighting the disparity in how women in sports are treated compared to men.
The online backlash against Doyel was significant, prompting him to issue an apology in a column published by the Star. He acknowledged his error and expressed regret for his inappropriate behavior towards Clark. Doyel admitted to often engaging in brashly conversational interactions with players and coaches but recognized that his behavior in this instance crossed a line. He apologized to Clark and admitted his mistake in trying to be clever, familiar, and welcoming.
The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges that women in sports face, from unequal pay to disrespectful treatment. Doyel’s apology and acknowledgment of his wrongdoing may provide an opportunity for reflection and change in how female athletes are treated. The incident underscores the importance of respecting women in all aspects of the sports industry.