In an unprecedented turn of events, Indy Star columnist Gregg Doyel finds himself under intense scrutiny for a second time after another unsettling interaction with newly drafted WNBA star Caitlin Clark. This news comes just days after a viral clip of Doyel’s first exchange with Clark, in which he mimicked the basketball star’s heart sign gesture and fans around the globe are questioning the prominent journalist’s questionable behavior.
The newly surfaced clip from the Indiana Fever press conference shows Doyel referring to NCAA basketball star Caitlin Clark as “that” and “it” while directing questions to the team’s coach, Christie Sides. “You were just given the keys to that,” said Doyel, “What are you going to do with it?” The remark has been widely criticized as inappropriate, disrespectful, and even dehumanizing towards Clark.
Earlier in the week, Doyel sparked controversy with his heart sign gesture exchange with Caitlin Clark, a move that has been described as cringe-worthy and awkward. After being called out on social media, Doyel issued an apology for his “uniquely oafish way, while welcoming Caitlin Clark to Indy.” He admitted his comment after forming the heart sign with his hands was “clumsy and awkward” and pledged to do better in the future.
However, as one poorly-executed apology came to an end, another controversy began. In response to the public backlash, Doyel penned a column in the Indy Star titled, “Doyel: Caitlin Clark, I’m so sorry. On Wednesday, I was part of the problem.” In the article, Doyel expressed his devastation at realizing he contributed to the issues faced by female athletes today.
Admitting his need for increased awareness, Doyel wrote, “What I’ve learned is that I need to be more aware of how I talk to people – not just athletes.” He revealed that his initial reaction to the viral clip was denial and anger, followed by acceptance of responsibility and remorse. In a heartfelt apology, Doyel said, “Caitlin Clark, I’m so sorry.”
The unfortunate series of events involving Gregg Doyel and Caitlin Clark serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by female athletes worldwide. It also underscores the importance of awareness, sensitivity, and respect when interacting with others, regardless of their public profile or profession.
In conclusion, while Doyel’s apologies may be sincere, the incidents involving Caitlin Clark represent a broader issue of societal expectations and norms surrounding female athletes. It is essential to continue conversations and share stories like these to foster understanding, challenge cultural biases, and ultimately create a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone involved in sports. The responsibility lies with each one of us to be mindful of our words and actions, and to learn from the mistakes of others, like Gregg Doyel, to create positive change.
