Sydney Sweeney Faces Criticism for Sports Prediction Ad

Actress Sydney Sweeney faces criticism from her HBO’s “Euphoria” co-star over her advertisement for the sports prediction platform Novig. The ad has stirred controversy for its provocative nature. Attendees at Variety’s 2026 Power of Women event heard Sharon Stone, 68, share her views on Sweeney’s ad. Stone suggested Sweeney, 29, should “take responsibility” for her actions. The video has sparked backlash from female athletes, and Stone emphasized her role in supporting women in sports.

“We shouldn’t undermine women’s sports to capture male gambling interest,” Stone stated. The ad features a nearly nude Sweeney in provocative positions with sports equipment, promoting betting on “just sports.”

Sweeney received backlash from various sectors for the ad. It echoed Stone’s past experiences. Stone recalled her high school days when she confronted school administrators about joining the boys’ golf team, as her school lacked a girls’ team. She succeeded and joined the boys’ team, mentioned in People magazine.

Athletes like Australian Olympic gold medalist swimmer Ariarne Titmus expressed strong disapproval. She remarked on Instagram about the continued sexualization of women in sports. British sprinter Amy Hunt commented during a competition in Budapest, “This is what women in sport look like, with muscles and hard work.”

Sweeney responded to criticism with social media posts highlighting famous nude ESPN images of athletes such as Serena Williams and Megan Rapinoe. The controversy prompted discussions within media circles, as noted by Newsbusters managing editor Curtis Houck. He suggested that the backlash could be driven by jealousy and Sweeney’s defiance of certain norms.

Fox News reached out to both Stone and Sweeney for comments. The discussion continues across media platforms, examining the implications of Sweeney’s advertisement.