Fox News faces backlash over Sophie Cunningham birthday message
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 17, 2026, 7:04 PM
Last updated Aug 17, 2026
On August 16, Fox News wished Sophie Cunningham a happy 30th birthday amidst her performance in the Indiana Fever’s overtime win against the Atlanta Dream. The network referred to Cunningham as a "superstar," triggering backlash on social media from WNBA fans criticizing the description. Cunningham scored three points in 32 minutes during the game, and responses highlighted her relatively modest scoring average of 8.8 points per game. The unexpected recognition led commentators to speculate on Fox News' potential increased interest in covering the WNBA.
- •Cunningham scored three points in 32 minutes during the game.
- •Fox News tweeted a birthday message calling her a 'superstar.'
- •Many fans criticized the use of 'superstar' given her scoring average.
- •The Fever won their game against the Dream in overtime.
- •This situation sparked discussions about coverage of women's sports.
- 7:04 PMYahoo Sports — Fox News is getting roasted for Sophie Cunningham birthday message
"Cunningham got the "superstar" treatment.
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