Another gender row at Paris Olympics: Sports commentator misgenders US athlete live on air
gender controversy at the Paris Olympics, BBC host Steve Backley found himself in the spotlight for using incorrect pronouns when introducing American shot putter Raven Saunders during the 2024 Paris Olympics. Saunders, 28, who identifies as non-binary and uses «they/them» pronouns, was competing in the women’s shot put qualifying round when the incident occurred.
Saunders, known for their silver medal win at the Tokyo Olympics and their bold, colourful persona, appeared on the field with hair dyed green and purple and a mask covering much of their face. Backley, however, repeatedly referred to Saunders as «her» during the broadcast, prompting his co-host, Jazmin Sawyers, to correct him live on air. Sawyers gently reminded him, saying, «Raven Saunders is actually non-binary and wearing the mask there, we’re quite used to seeing them with interesting attire.»
The moment quickly gained traction on social media, igniting a heated debate over gender identity in sports. While some users questioned why a non-binary athlete was participating in a women’s event, others defended Saunders, noting that as long as they are genetically a woman, their participation is valid.
This incident follows closely on the heels of another gender controversy involving Algerian boxer Imane Khelif, who was previously disqualified from the world championships due to gender eligibility issues but was later cleared to compete in the Paris 2024 Games.
(You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel)
Read more on economictimes.indiatimes.com
