Gregg Doyel, an Indianapolis Star columnist, found himself in hot water after a series of awkward interactions with WNBA No. 1 draft pick Caitlin Clark during her introductory press conference. In one such instance, he referred to her as “that” and “it” while talking to Fever coach Christie Sides, asking her what she planned to do with “that” after being given the keys. This odd choice of language was in addition to a previous incident where Doyel formed a heart symbol with his hands for Clark to open his questioning, which garnered criticism from fans and media personalities alike. The social media backlash was swift and harsh, with many calling Doyel’s behavior inappropriate, unprofessional, and gross.
The initial incident occurred when Doyel formed a heart symbol with his hands for Clark to open his questioning, leading to an uncomfortable exchange where he told her to start making that gesture towards him if they were going to get along. This prompted a visceral reaction online, with many criticizing Doyel for being creepy and crossing professional boundaries. This negative response led to Doyel issuing an apology to Clark, acknowledging that his comments were clumsy and awkward. He expressed regret for his behavior and promised to do better in the future.
Despite Doyel’s apology, the controversy surrounding his interactions with Caitlin Clark continued to escalate as more videos surfaced of his strange behavior during the press conference. In one such video, he referred to her as “that” and “it” while speaking to Fever coach Christie Sides, further adding to the criticism and backlash against him. The media personalities and fans who spoke out against Doyel’s actions called for consequences, with some suggesting that the Indiana Fever should revoke his credentials for his inappropriate behavior.
The backlash against Doyel’s actions highlighted the ongoing issue of inappropriate behavior and misogyny in sports media. Many pointed out that Doyel’s behavior was indicative of a larger problem within the industry, where women athletes are often objectified and treated differently than their male counterparts. The incident with Caitlin Clark served as a stark reminder of the challenges that female athletes face in a predominantly male-dominated industry, and the importance of holding media figures accountable for their actions.
In response to the criticism and backlash, Doyel wrote a column titled “Caitlin Clark, I’m so sorry. On Wednesday I was part of the problem,” in which he apologized for his actions and promised to do better in the future. He acknowledged that his behavior was inappropriate and expressed remorse for the impact it had on Clark and others. Doyel’s apology and self-reflection were seen as a step in the right direction, but many continued to call for accountability and consequences for his actions.
Overall, the controversy surrounding Gregg Doyel’s interactions with Caitlin Clark shed light on broader issues of misogyny and inappropriate behavior in sports media. The incident served as a reminder of the challenges that female athletes face in a male-dominated industry and the importance of holding media figures accountable for their actions. While Doyel apologized for his behavior and promised to do better, the fallout from the incident prompted further discussions about gender dynamics in sports media and the need for change in the industry.
