Sydney Sweeney Advert Controversy: Athletes Speak Out
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Sydney Sweeney: Amy Hunt says advert is barrier to girls in sport – BBC Sport
By Ffion Wynne, BBC Sport Journalist
Published 7 minutes ago
British sprinter Amy Hunt has expressed concern over a controversial advertisement featuring Sydney Sweeney, stating it could be a "barrier" to girls’ participation in sports.
"This is what women in sport look like!" – Hunt on the ad.
The advert, for a sports betting company, depicts Sweeney naked, partially covered by sporting equipment. Following her recent 200m final win at the Ultimate Championship in Budapest (22.10 seconds), Hunt addressed the issue:
"When we’re trying to provide role models for young people and young women in sport, we really want to show that it’s about what your body can do, not so much what it looks like."
Hunt highlighted the alarming stat that 64% of young girls abandon exercise and sports before reaching the age of 16, emphasizing the need for inclusive and empowering opportunities.
Reaction and Counterpoint
Hunt noted the positive response to the ad has overshadowed its controversial nature. She agreed with the general sentiment that sport is not always "pretty," describing her own struggles during training sessions and emotional breakdowns when things don’t go as planned.
