Sydney Sweeney fires back at critics after a nude sports betting campaign ignited a firestorm on social media. The 29‑year‑old actress posted a series of behind‑the‑scenes photos that drew immediate backlash.
Provocative Imagery
Sweeney shared a carousel on Instagram on Sunday, covering her upper body with two footballs while smiling for the camera. The post also displayed ESPN magazine covers featuring nude athletes such as Serena Williams, Ronda Rousey, Sue Bird, Megan Rapinoe and Caroline Wozniacki.
Critics’ Reaction
Online users accused the campaign of sexualizing a male‑dominated field and warned that minors could view the ad. One comment read, “We’ve spent years fighting to be seen for our talent, not reduced to our bodies,” while another demanded, “How do we cancel this?”
Sweeney’s Defense
In a statement to Variety, Sweeney said the concept aimed to cut through the noise and focus on sports with confidence, humor and a playful edge. She emphasized that the ad was an advertisement for a sports trading app, not a political statement.
Previous Controversies
The actress has faced prior criticism for her role in HBO’s “Euphoria” and for a 2025 American Eagle fall campaign that replaced “genes” with “jeans” on a billboard. Salon noted the phrase “great genes” historically celebrated whiteness and thinness, sparking accusations of tone‑deafness.
Sweeney’s representatives have not responded to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.
